System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system comprising: means for a user to create and log into an account; means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data; means for a server to generate, encode and deliver olfactory data; means for the terminal to decode received olfactory data and send control signals to an olfactory device; and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a persona chatbot control method performed by at least one processor, the method including the steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to a description of the chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-180282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] While conventional virtual reality and digital experiences can reproduce vision and hearing to a high degree, little progress has been made in reproducing the sense of smell, making it difficult to fully realize a sense of immersion. Furthermore, the lack of an efficient and highly accurate method for the entire process of generating, distributing, and reproducing olfactory data poses a challenge, resulting in a degradation of the quality of the user experience. The present invention aims to solve these challenges and bring users' digital experiences closer to reality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system for providing a digital olfactory experience, including means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate a specified scent and provide it to the user. The system also includes means for an olfactory generation AI to generate a specific scent profile based on the received request, and means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data based on a specific scene and receive olfactory data corresponding to that scene, allowing users to enjoy a realistic olfactory experience with high accuracy and efficiency.

[0006] A "user" is a person who uses the system and is the subject who receives the olfactory digital experience.

[0007] "Account" means a per-user data set containing the information necessary for a user to access the system and be individually authenticated.

[0008] "Login" means the authentication process a User goes through to access their account and use the System.

[0009] A "terminal" is a device that a user connects to the system to request and decode olfactory data. Examples include VR goggles and game consoles.

[0010] A "server" is a central processing unit for generating, storing, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0011] "Olfactory data" is information that digitally represents a specific scent and is used to recreate a user's olfactory experience.

[0012] A "request" is a request from a terminal to a server for the generation and distribution of specific olfactory data.

[0013] "Encoding" is the process of converting olfactory data into a specific format so that it can be distributed.

[0014] "Decoding" refers to the process of converting the received encoded olfactory data back into a usable data format.

[0015] An "olfactory device" is a device that generates scents based on decoded olfactory data and presents them to the user.

[0016] A "control signal" is a digital signal that the terminal uses to instruct the olfactory device to generate and release a scent.

[0017] "Olfactory Generative AI" is an artificial intelligence that generates specific scent profiles based on requests.

[0018] A "profile" is a data set that describes a specific scent in detail, and is used to recreate that scent.

[0019] A "scene" refers to a specific situation or location that a user experiences within a game or metaverse space, and the corresponding olfactory data is associated with it. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] An example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0023] In the following embodiments, a coded processor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "processor") may be a single arithmetic device or a combination of multiple arithmetic devices. Furthermore, a processor may be a single type of arithmetic device or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic devices. Examples of arithmetic devices include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), and an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

[0024] In the following embodiments, a coded RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a working memory by a processor.

[0025] In the following embodiments, the coded storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), and magnetic tapes.

[0026] In the following embodiments, a communication I / F (Interface) with a symbol is an interface including a communication processor, an antenna, etc. The communication I / F controls communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0027] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed connected by "and / or."

[0028] [First embodiment]

[0029] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0030] 1, a data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0031] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0032] The smart device 14 includes a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, the output device 40, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0033] The reception device 38 includes a touch panel 38A, a microphone 38B, and the like, and receives user input. The touch panel 38A detects contact with an indicator (for example, a pen or a finger) to receive user input by the touch of the indicator. The microphone 38B detects the user's voice to receive user input by voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.

[0034] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form of expression that the user 20 can perceive (for example, audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a compact digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0035] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 control the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0037] 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific process is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0038] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0039] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. The storage 50 stores a reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with the specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0040] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0041] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, and means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device.

[0042] To implement this system, the program operates as follows.

[0043] User Registration and Login

[0044] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password on the login screen, and the device sends the authentication information to the server. The server compares the information with the database, and if authentication is successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0045] Selection and request of olfactory data

[0046] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, retrieves and encodes olfactory data generated using olfactory generation AI from the database. The encoded olfactory data is then delivered from the server to the device.

[0047] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0048] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[0049] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[0050] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience scents that correspond to the scene in the virtual space or game.

[0051] Specific examples

[0052] For example, suppose a user wants to enter a virtual forest. The device requests "forest scent" data and sends it to the server. The server generates scent data corresponding to the forest scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "forest scent," allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience as if they were actually there.

[0053] In this way, the system can provide users with an advanced olfactory experience and significantly improve the immersion of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0054] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0055] Step 1:

[0056] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[0057] Step 2:

[0058] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[0059] Step 3:

[0060] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[0061] Step 4:

[0062] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[0063] Step 5:

[0064] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0065] Step 6:

[0066] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[0067] Step 7:

[0068] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[0069] Step 8:

[0070] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[0071] Step 9:

[0072] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data, if necessary, using an olfactory generation AI.

[0073] Step 10:

[0074] The olfactory data generated by the server is retrieved from the database, encoded, and sent to the terminal.

[0075] Step 11:

[0076] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[0077] Step 12:

[0078] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[0079] Step 13:

[0080] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0081] Step 14:

[0082] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[0083] Step 15:

[0084] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[0085] Example 1

[0086] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0087] There is a need for a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in any scene in virtual reality or the metaverse. Existing technologies have difficulty in effectively generating, delivering, and decoding olfactory data, and transmitting control signals to olfactory devices, making it difficult for users to obtain a consistent experience. In particular, generating and delivering olfactory data in real time in dynamic environments has been difficult.

[0088] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0089] In this invention, the server includes means for generating olfactory data using an olfactory generation assistance system, means for compressing the generated olfactory data and transmitting it to a terminal, and means for generating scent characteristics using prompts based on a request received from the terminal, thereby enabling a user to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0090] A "user" is an entity that utilizes the system and is an individual who seeks to enjoy an olfactory experience within the virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0091] A "terminal" is a device operated by a user, which transmits requests for olfactory data, decodes the received data, and transmits control signals to the olfactory output device.

[0092] The "server" is a central device that receives requests from terminals, generates olfactory data, compresses it, and transfers it.

[0093] The "olfactory generation assistance system" is a system that generates scent characteristics based on a received request and provides olfactory data to a server.

[0094] "Olfactory data" is data used to describe a particular scent, and is generated on the server as a profile.

[0095] A "prompt" is information provided by the server as instructions or questions for the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics.

[0096] A "control signal" is a signal generated by a terminal to control an olfactory output device based on olfactory data received by the terminal.

[0097] An "olfactory output device" is a device that generates a specific scent based on a control signal and provides it to the user.

[0098] "Compression" is a process for reducing the size of data, and is performed to efficiently transmit olfactory data from a server to a terminal.

[0099] "Decoding" is the process of restoring compressed data to its original form, and is a process performed by the terminal to decode the olfactory data received.

[0100] This invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, compress, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory output device, and means for the olfactory output device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0101] Hardware and software used

[0102] Hardware: Olfactory output device (e.g., a general olfactory output device)

[0103] Software: Olfactory generative assistance systems (e.g., using generative AI models), database systems, authentication systems

[0104] Flow of olfactory data generation and processing

[0105] User Registration and Login

[0106] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information.

[0107] The terminal transmits this information to the server.

[0108] The server stores the received information in a database and verifies the information entered when logging in.

[0109] Requesting and generating olfactory data

[0110] When a user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server.

[0111] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data using the olfactory generation assistance system, where the generative AI model generates scent characteristics based on the prompt text.

[0112] Data Compression and Distribution

[0113] The server compresses the generated olfactory data and transfers it to the terminal using a data compression algorithm.

[0114] The terminal decodes the received data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0115] Scent generation with olfactory devices

[0116] The olfactory output device generates specific scents based on control signals, allowing users to enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual spaces or the metaverse.

[0117] Specific examples

[0118] For example, in a scene where a user enters a virtual forest, the following process is executed.

[0119] 1. The user navigates to a virtual forest scene.

[0120] 2. The device requests the "forest scent" data and sends it to the server.

[0121] 3. The server uses the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics based on the following prompt: "Generate a forest scent."

[0122] 4. The olfactory generation assistance system generates a specific scent profile, which the server compresses and sends to the terminal.

[0123] 5. The terminal decodes the data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0124] 6. The olfactory output device generates a "forest scent," and by smelling this scent, the user can have a realistic olfactory experience in a virtual forest.

[0125] Through this system, users will be able to enjoy richer and more realistic experiences in virtual reality and the metaverse.

[0126] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0127] Step 1:

[0128] User registration input

[0129] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters information such as a username, password, and email address. User information is generated based on this input data.

[0130] User registration output

[0131] The entered information is sent by the terminal to the server.

[0132] Specific actions

[0133] 1. The user enters the required user information on the registration page.

[0134] 2. The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[0135] Step 2:

[0136] Enter Save User Information

[0137] The server receives the received user information and stores it in a database, with the password hashed.

[0138] Save User Information Output

[0139] The hashed user information is stored in a database.

[0140] Specific actions

[0141] 1. The server analyzes the received user information and hashes the password.

[0142] 2. Store hashed user information in a database.

[0143] Step 3:

[0144] Enter user login

[0145] The user enters their username and password on the login page and sends the authentication information from their device to the server.

[0146] User login output

[0147] The authentication information is sent to the server, which authenticates the user.

[0148] Specific actions

[0149] 1. The user enters their username and password on the login page.

[0150] 2. The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0151] Step 4:

[0152] Input for authentication and session ID generation

[0153] The server checks the received credentials against the information in its database: the password is compared to a hash value.

[0154] Authentication and session ID generation output

[0155] If authentication is successful, the server generates a unique session ID and returns it to the terminal.

[0156] Specific actions

[0157] 1. The server compares the password hash value against the information in its database.

[0158] 2. If authentication is successful, a session ID is generated and returned to the terminal.

[0159] Step 5:

[0160] Entering an olfactory data request

[0161] The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, and based on this scene, the device sends a request for olfactory data to the server.

[0162] Output of olfactory data request

[0163] A request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene is sent to the server.

[0164] Specific actions

[0165] 1. The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space.

[0166] 2. The device sends a request for olfactory data to the server based on the scene ID.

[0167] Step 6:

[0168] Input for olfactory data generation

[0169] The server analyzes the received request and generates scent characteristics using the olfactory generation assistance system, using a prompt such as "Please generate a forest scent."

[0170] Olfactory data generation output

[0171] The generated scent signatures are taken from a database or created by a generative AI model.

[0172] Specific actions

[0173] 1. The server analyzes the request and sends a prompt to the olfactory generation assistance system.

[0174] 2. The olfactory generation assistance system generates the scent characteristics and sends them back to the server.

[0175] Step 7:

[0176] Compression and delivery of olfactory data input

[0177] The server compresses the generated olfactory data using a compression algorithm to reduce the data size.

[0178] Olfactory data compression and delivery output

[0179] The compressed olfactory data is sent to the terminal.

[0180] Specific actions

[0181] 1. The server compresses the generated olfactory data.

[0182] 2. Send the compressed data to the terminal.

[0183] Step 8:

[0184] Input for decoding data and generating control signals

[0185] The terminal decodes the received compressed data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device based on the decoded data.

[0186] Output of data decoding and control signal generation

[0187] The decoded data is sent to an olfactory output device, which generates a control signal.

[0188] Specific actions

[0189] 1. The terminal decodes the received compressed data.

[0190] 2. Based on the decoded data, a control signal is generated and transmitted to the olfactory output device.

[0191] Step 9:

[0192] Scent generation input

[0193] The olfactory output device receives a control signal and produces a designated scent.

[0194] Scent generation output

[0195] The resulting scent is provided to the user.

[0196] Specific actions

[0197] 1. The olfactory output device receives a control signal.

[0198] 2. Generate the specified scent and provide it to the user.

[0199] Through this series of steps, users can enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse.

[0200] (Application example 1)

[0201] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0202] Modern virtual reality and metaverse experiences rely on sight and hearing, but olfactory stimulation is essential to enhance the user's sense of immersion. However, current technology lacks the means to generate and provide scents tailored to the scene in the virtual world in real time. Furthermore, to further enrich the viewing experience of video content, providing scents tailored to the scene being viewed is required, but there are many challenges to achieving this. The objective of this invention is to solve these problems and significantly improve the immersive experience of virtual reality and video content.

[0203] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0204] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, and means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data.

[0205] This allows olfactory data to be generated and distributed in real time based on scenes in virtual reality or the metaverse, or even specific scenes while watching video content, allowing users to instantly experience the scent corresponding to that scene.

[0206] "User" refers to a person who creates an account and logs in to use the system.

[0207] "Terminal" refers to a device that sends requests for olfactory data to a server and decodes the received olfactory data.

[0208] "Olfactory data" refers to data for generating a specific scent.

[0209] "Server" refers to the computer system responsible for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0210] "Encoding" refers to the process of converting data into a specific format for transmission or storage.

[0211] "Decoding" refers to the process of returning encoded data to its original form.

[0212] "Olfactory device" refers to a device that generates a scent based on received olfactory data.

[0213] "System" refers to a set of functions including users, terminals, servers, and olfactory devices.

[0214] "Video content" refers to content that can be viewed, such as movies and dramas.

[0215] "Scene" refers to a specific scene within virtual reality or video content.

[0216] "Olfactory generative AI" refers to artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on received requests.

[0217] The present invention is a system for enhancing the immersive experience by allowing users to experience scents that correspond to scenes in virtual reality or video content. The main components of this system include a user, a terminal, a server, and an olfactory device.

[0218] System Program

[0219] User Registration and Login

[0220] Users first create an account on the system and log in. This allows the system to manage the user's authentication information and establish a session. The hardware used is a smartphone or PC, and the software used on the server side is a web framework such as Flask.

[0221] Olfactory Data Request

[0222] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. At this time, the device generates request data including scene information within the content and sends it to the server.

[0223] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0224] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. During this process, olfactory generation AI is utilized to create a specific scent profile. The server encodes this profile and sends it to the device. The software used here is likely to use SQLite as a database.

[0225] Receiving and decoding olfactory data

[0226] The terminal decodes the received olfactory data and transmits control signals to the olfactory device. The terminal can be a smartphone or a PC, and appropriate libraries and functions are used for the decoding process.

[0227] Providing an olfactory experience

[0228] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience the scent corresponding to a specific scene in the video content. A typical example of an olfactory device is FeelReal.

[0229] Specific examples

[0230] For example, when a user watches an ocean scene in a movie, the device requests data on the "scent of the ocean." The server generates scent data corresponding to the ocean scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "scent of the ocean" and provides it to the user.

[0231] Example prompts for generative AI models

[0232] "Generate scent profiles corresponding to the following movie scenes:

[0233] Movie: Sea Adventure

[0234] Scene ID: 10

[0235] Scene description: The main characters are sailing on the ocean.

[0236] Scent required: The scent of the sea

[0237] The above is a specific example of a system for implementing the invention. This system can further enrich the viewing experience of virtual reality and video content, dramatically improving the user's sense of immersion.

[0238] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0239] Step 1:

[0240] User Account Creation and Login

[0241] The user accesses the account creation page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address. This information is sent from the device to the server, and the server stores the received information in a database. When the user logs in, they enter their username and password on the login screen, and the authentication information is sent from the device to the server. The server compares it with the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0242] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[0243] Output: Session ID (after login)

[0244] Step 2:

[0245] Request for olfactory data

[0246] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The device generates request data including the video scene information (such as the scene ID and timestamp) and sends it to the server.

[0247] Input: Scene ID, timestamp

[0248] Output: Request for olfactory data

[0249] Step 3:

[0250] Generation of olfactory data

[0251] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. The olfactory generation AI in the server creates a scent profile corresponding to the requested scene. This profile is encoded so that the olfactory device can generate the appropriate scent.

[0252] Input: Scene ID, request data

[0253] Output: Encoded olfactory data

[0254] Step 4:

[0255] Olfactory data distribution

[0256] The server delivers the generated encoded olfactory data to the terminal, which prepares to decode the received olfactory data.

[0257] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[0258] Output: Olfactory data ready to be decoded

[0259] Step 5:

[0260] Decoding olfactory data

[0261] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data, and the decoded data is converted into a control signal to be transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0262] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[0263] Output: Decoded control signal

[0264] Step 6:

[0265] Providing an olfactory experience

[0266] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the scene in the video content.

[0267] Input: Decoded control signal

[0268] Output: Specified scent (olfactory experience)

[0269] The above is the flow of processing in the program for the system that realizes the application example. By clearly showing the specific operations and inputs and outputs of each step, the operation of the system can be understood in detail.

[0270] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59 and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0271] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0272] Furthermore, the present invention is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, thereby optimizing the olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state.

[0273] Program processing

[0274] User Registration and Login

[0275] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the entered information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database to complete the registration. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the terminal sends the authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[0276] Selection and request of olfactory data

[0277] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or in a game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[0278] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0279] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[0280] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[0281] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the virtual space or in-game scene.

[0282] Introducing the Emotion Engine

[0283] As a further improvement, this system is equipped with an emotion engine. Data is collected using sensors to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data.

[0284] Specific examples

[0285] A user may wish to enter a virtual forest and request a forest scent to match the scene. Furthermore, if the emotion engine collects the user's emotional data and determines that the user is seeking relaxation, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The server receives this data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes it and sends a signal to the olfactory device, which then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[0286] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0287] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0288] Step 1:

[0289] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[0290] Step 2:

[0291] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[0292] Step 3:

[0293] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[0294] Step 4:

[0295] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[0296] Step 5:

[0297] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0298] Step 6:

[0299] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[0300] Step 7:

[0301] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[0302] Step 8:

[0303] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[0304] Step 9:

[0305] The terminal acquires the emotion data through a sensor for collecting the user's emotion data.

[0306] Step 10:

[0307] An emotion engine analyzes the collected emotion data to determine the user's emotional state.

[0308] Step 11:

[0309] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the olfactory generation AI to generate optimal olfactory data.

[0310] Step 12:

[0311] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates olfactory data based on the received emotion analysis results and the scene.

[0312] Step 13:

[0313] The olfactory data generated by the server is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[0314] Step 14:

[0315] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[0316] Step 15:

[0317] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[0318] Step 16:

[0319] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0320] Step 17:

[0321] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[0322] Step 18:

[0323] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[0324] Example 2

[0325] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0326] Providing users with an olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse has not been fully realized with existing technologies. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to optimize the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state. As a result, the user's sense of immersion and the quality of the experience are not sufficiently improved.

[0327] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data, means for creating a specific scent profile based on a request received by the olfactory generation AI, and means for sending instructions to the emotion engine to generate optimal olfactory data based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to provide an advanced olfactory experience that reflects the user's emotional state.

[0328] "Account" means an identifier that includes the login information required for a User to access the System.

[0329] "Device" refers to an electronic device used by a user, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[0330] A "server" is a computer system capable of receiving requests from users and generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0331] "Olfactory data" is a data format that contains the information necessary to reproduce a specific scent.

[0332] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a particular format for transmission.

[0333] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[0334] A "control signal" is a signal that contains instructions to cause an olfactory device to produce a particular scent.

[0335] An "olfactory device" is a device that generates a specified scent based on decoded olfactory data.

[0336] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates optimal olfactory data based on that data.

[0337] "Olfactory generation AI" is an artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on user requests and the analysis results of an emotion engine.

[0338] A "prompt" is an instruction given to the olfactory generation AI to generate a specific scent.

[0339] The present invention is a system that provides a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0340] First, the user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, and the server completes registration by storing the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the device sends authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0341] Next, when the user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[0342] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the prompt sentence, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device based on this data.

[0343] Furthermore, sensors are used to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, instructions are sent to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. This makes it possible to provide a customized olfactory experience according to the user's emotions.

[0344] For example, if a user enters a virtual forest area and requests a "forest scent" prompt, the emotion engine may also detect that the user is seeking relaxation. In this case, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The generated data is encoded and sent to the device by the server. The device decodes the data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[0345] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0346] Example prompt sentence:

[0347] "Generate a forest scent"

[0348] "Users want relaxation. Add a relaxing scent."

[0349] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0350] Step 1:

[0351] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information (username, password, email address). Input information: username, password, email address. Output: registration request.

[0352] The device sends this input information to the server. Input information: User name, password, email address. Output: Sent data.

[0353] Step 2:

[0354] The server processes the received registration request and completes the registration by saving the input information in the database. Input information: Username, password, email address. Output: Registration completion notification.

[0355] The server returns a registration completion notification to the terminal. Input information: Registration completion notification. Output: Notification to the user.

[0356] Step 3:

[0357] A user attempts to log in by entering a username and password on a login page. Input: username, password. Output: login request.

[0358] The device sends this login request to the server. Input information: username, password. Output: sent data.

[0359] Step 4:

[0360] The server receives the authentication information and checks the username and password. Input information: username, password. Output: authentication result.

[0361] If authentication is successful, the server generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. Input information: Authentication result (success). Output: Session ID.

[0362] Step 5:

[0363] The user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game. Input information: User action (moving to a specific scene). Output: Scene information.

[0364] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server. Input information: Scene information. Output: Olfactory data request.

[0365] Step 6:

[0366] The server receives the request and creates a prompt for the olfactory generation AI if necessary. Input information: Olfactory data request. Output: Prompt.

[0367] The olfactory generation AI on the server generates olfactory data based on the prompt. Input information: Prompt. Output: Olfactory data.

[0368] Step 7:

[0369] The server encodes the generated olfactory data and sends it to the terminal. Input information: olfactory data. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[0370] The terminal receives the encoded olfactory data and decodes it. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Decoded olfactory data.

[0371] Step 8:

[0372] The terminal transmits a control signal to the olfactory device based on the decoded olfactory data. Input information: Decoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[0373] The olfactory device generates a specified scent based on the received control signal and provides it to the user. Input information: Control signal. Output: Generated scent.

[0374] Step 9:

[0375] The user experiences the generated scent. Input information: Generated scent. Output: Olfactory experience.

[0376] Step 10:

[0377] It uses sensors to recognize the user's emotional state. Input information: sensor data. Output: emotional state data.

[0378] The emotion engine analyzes the data collected from the sensors. Input information: Emotional state data. Output: Analysis results.

[0379] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. Input information: Analysis results. Output: Olfactory generation instructions.

[0380] Step 11:

[0381] The server generates olfactory data based on instructions from the emotion engine, encodes it, and sends it to the device. Input information: olfactory generation instructions. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[0382] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[0383] The olfactory device generates an optimized scent and provides it to the user. Input information: control signal. Output: optimized scent.

[0384] The above is the specific processing procedure of this system.

[0385] (Application example 2)

[0386] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0387] Current virtual reality and metaverse spaces primarily rely on visual and auditory experiences, with few olfactory experiences being realized. This results in a lack of realism and immersion when users shop or experience things in virtual spaces. Furthermore, there are insufficient means to provide optimal olfactory experiences tailored to the user's emotional state. In particular, there is a need to realize a more realistic and engaging shopping experience in virtual stores by providing scents related to selected products when the user selects them.

[0388] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0389] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the olfactory data received and send a control signal to the olfactory device, means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions, means for optimizing the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state based on the emotion engine, and means for providing a scent related to a product selected by the user in a virtual store. This makes it possible to provide a high level of immersion in virtual reality and metaverse spaces and an optimal olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state.

[0390] "User" refers to a person who uses the system.

[0391] "Account" means the registration information, including the unique identification information, that a User creates to access the System.

[0392] "Login" is the process by which a user enters their account information and accesses the system.

[0393] "Terminal" means the electronic device used by a User to operate the System.

[0394] "Olfactory data" is information data that expresses a specific scent.

[0395] A "server" is a central processing unit for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0396] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a certain format.

[0397] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[0398] An "olfactory device" is a hardware device that provides a specific scent to a user.

[0399] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates the optimal olfactory experience based on the results.

[0400] A "virtual store" is a virtual shopping environment that exists within virtual reality or the metaverse.

[0401] "Generative AI" is an artificial intelligence model that generates scent profiles based on specific input data.

[0402] An "aroma profile" is a detailed data set that recreates a specific scent.

[0403] The present invention is a system that provides an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. This system includes a process in which a user creates an account and logs in, a terminal sends a request for olfactory data, and a server generates, encodes, and distributes the olfactory data. A specific embodiment for realizing this system is described below.

[0404] Overall system configuration

[0405] 1. Create a user account and log in

[0406] The user accesses the system's registration page using a terminal and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. When logging in, the user enters authentication information and sends it from the terminal to the server. The server performs authentication, and if successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[0407] 2. Requesting and generating olfactory data

[0408] When a user selects a product in the virtual store, a request is sent from the device to the server to provide the scent associated with that product. Upon receiving the request, the server uses a generative AI model to generate a specific scent profile, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[0409] 3. Decoding and Delivery of Olfactory Data

[0410] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[0411] 4. Use of Emotion Engine

[0412] The emotion engine collects and analyzes data from sensors that recognize the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate olfactory data that is optimal for the user's emotional state. This allows it to provide the appropriate scent when the user is seeking a relaxing effect.

[0413] Hardware and software used

[0414] Terminal: An electronic device operated by a user (e.g., a smartphone, a head-mounted display)

[0415] Server: Central processing unit (e.g., cloud server)

[0416] Database: Storage for saving user information (e.g. Firebase)

[0417] Olfactory device: Hardware that generates scents (e.g., OVR Technology)

[0418] Emotion engine: software that analyzes user emotions

[0419] Generative AI model: An artificial intelligence model for generating olfactory data

[0420] Specific examples

[0421] When a user enters the cafe area of ​​the virtual store, the scent is generated as follows:

[0422] 1. When a user enters the cafe area, the device sends a request to the server to "generate the scent of the cafe area."

[0423] 2. The server generates olfactory data for the generative AI model using the following prompt:

[0424] Prompt statement:

[0425] The user enters the cafe area. Generate the aroma of coffee and baked goods. Based on the emotional data, add the relaxing scent of herbs.

[0426] 3. The generated olfactory data is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[0427] 4. The device decodes the data and sends it to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[0428] In this way, the system provides an advanced olfactory experience in the virtual space, optimizing the experience according to the user's emotional state. It also provides scents related to selected products when the user selects them in the virtual store, creating an engaging shopping experience.

[0429] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0430] Step 1:

[0431] User Registration and Login

[0432] A user accesses the account creation page and enters a username, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server. The server stores the received information in a database and completes the registration. When logging in, the user enters their authentication information and the device sends that information to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with the database, and if it matches, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0433] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[0434] Output: Session ID

[0435] Step 2:

[0436] Olfactory data request when moving between scenes

[0437] When a user moves to a specific scene (such as a cafe area) in a virtual store, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives this request and inputs the corresponding prompt sentence into the generative AI model.

[0438] Input: Identification information for a specific scene

[0439] Output: prompt statement

[0440] Step 3:

[0441] Olfactory data generation

[0442] The server's generative AI model generates a specific scent profile based on the received prompt, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[0443] Input: prompt statement

[0444] Output: Encoded scent profile

[0445] Step 4:

[0446] Decoding and delivering olfactory data

[0447] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server, and the decoded data is sent to the olfactory device as a control signal.

[0448] Input: Encoded scent profile

[0449] Output: Decoded scent data

[0450] Step 5:

[0451] Scent generation by olfactory devices

[0452] Based on the control signal received, the olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user, allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience within the virtual space.

[0453] Input: Decoded scent data

[0454] Output: Generated scent

[0455] Step 6:

[0456] Use of emotion engine

[0457] To analyze the user's emotions, the device collects emotional data from the emotion sensor and sends it to the server. The server's emotion engine analyzes the emotional data and issues instructions to generate the optimal olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state. The server then sends new prompts to the generative AI model based on these instructions.

[0458] Input: Emotion data from emotion sensors

[0459] Output: Prompt sentence optimized for the user's emotional state

[0460] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0461] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0462] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific process is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific process may be performed by the smart device 14.

[0463] [Second embodiment]

[0464] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0465] 3, the data processing system 210 includes the data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0466] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0467] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0468] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0469] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0470] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0471] Fig. 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Fig. 4, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0472] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0473] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0474] In the smart glasses 214, the reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0475] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0476] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, and means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device.

[0477] To implement this system, the program operates as follows.

[0478] User Registration and Login

[0479] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password on the login screen, and the device sends the authentication information to the server. The server compares the information with the database, and if authentication is successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0480] Selection and request of olfactory data

[0481] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, retrieves and encodes olfactory data generated using olfactory generation AI from the database. The encoded olfactory data is then delivered from the server to the device.

[0482] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0483] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[0484] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[0485] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience scents that correspond to the scene in the virtual space or game.

[0486] Specific examples

[0487] For example, suppose a user wants to enter a virtual forest. The device requests "forest scent" data and sends it to the server. The server generates scent data corresponding to the forest scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "forest scent," allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience as if they were actually there.

[0488] In this way, the system can provide users with an advanced olfactory experience and significantly improve the immersion of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0489] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0490] Step 1:

[0491] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[0492] Step 2:

[0493] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[0494] Step 3:

[0495] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[0496] Step 4:

[0497] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[0498] Step 5:

[0499] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0500] Step 6:

[0501] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[0502] Step 7:

[0503] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[0504] Step 8:

[0505] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[0506] Step 9:

[0507] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data, if necessary, using an olfactory generation AI.

[0508] Step 10:

[0509] The olfactory data generated by the server is retrieved from the database, encoded, and sent to the terminal.

[0510] Step 11:

[0511] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[0512] Step 12:

[0513] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[0514] Step 13:

[0515] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0516] Step 14:

[0517] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[0518] Step 15:

[0519] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[0520] Example 1

[0521] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0522] There is a need for a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in any scene in virtual reality or the metaverse. Existing technologies have difficulty in effectively generating, delivering, and decoding olfactory data, and transmitting control signals to olfactory devices, making it difficult for users to obtain a consistent experience. In particular, generating and delivering olfactory data in real time in dynamic environments has been difficult.

[0523] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0524] In this invention, the server includes means for generating olfactory data using an olfactory generation assistance system, means for compressing the generated olfactory data and transmitting it to a terminal, and means for generating scent characteristics using prompts based on a request received from the terminal, thereby enabling a user to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0525] A "user" is an entity that utilizes the system and is an individual who seeks to enjoy an olfactory experience within the virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0526] A "terminal" is a device operated by a user, which transmits requests for olfactory data, decodes the received data, and transmits control signals to the olfactory output device.

[0527] The "server" is a central device that receives requests from terminals, generates olfactory data, compresses it, and transfers it.

[0528] The "olfactory generation assistance system" is a system that generates scent characteristics based on a received request and provides olfactory data to a server.

[0529] "Olfactory data" is data used to describe a particular scent, and is generated on the server as a profile.

[0530] A "prompt" is information provided by the server as instructions or questions for the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics.

[0531] A "control signal" is a signal generated by a terminal to control an olfactory output device based on olfactory data received by the terminal.

[0532] An "olfactory output device" is a device that generates a specific scent based on a control signal and provides it to the user.

[0533] "Compression" is a process for reducing the size of data, and is performed to efficiently transmit olfactory data from a server to a terminal.

[0534] "Decoding" is the process of restoring compressed data to its original form, and is a process performed by the terminal to decode the olfactory data received.

[0535] This invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, compress, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory output device, and means for the olfactory output device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0536] Hardware and software used

[0537] Hardware: Olfactory output device (e.g., a general olfactory output device)

[0538] Software: Olfactory generative assistance systems (e.g., using generative AI models), database systems, authentication systems

[0539] Flow of olfactory data generation and processing

[0540] User Registration and Login

[0541] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information.

[0542] The terminal transmits this information to the server.

[0543] The server stores the received information in a database and verifies the information entered when logging in.

[0544] Requesting and generating olfactory data

[0545] When a user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server.

[0546] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data using the olfactory generation assistance system, where the generative AI model generates scent characteristics based on the prompt text.

[0547] Data Compression and Distribution

[0548] The server compresses the generated olfactory data and transfers it to the terminal using a data compression algorithm.

[0549] The terminal decodes the received data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0550] Scent generation with olfactory devices

[0551] The olfactory output device generates specific scents based on control signals, allowing users to enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual spaces or the metaverse.

[0552] Specific examples

[0553] For example, in a scene where a user enters a virtual forest, the following process is executed.

[0554] 1. The user navigates to a virtual forest scene.

[0555] 2. The device requests the "forest scent" data and sends it to the server.

[0556] 3. The server uses the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics based on the following prompt: "Generate a forest scent."

[0557] 4. The olfactory generation assistance system generates a specific scent profile, which the server compresses and sends to the terminal.

[0558] 5. The terminal decodes the data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0559] 6. The olfactory output device generates a "forest scent," and by smelling this scent, the user can have a realistic olfactory experience in a virtual forest.

[0560] Through this system, users will be able to enjoy richer and more realistic experiences in virtual reality and the metaverse.

[0561] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0562] Step 1:

[0563] User registration input

[0564] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters information such as a username, password, and email address. User information is generated based on this input data.

[0565] User registration output

[0566] The entered information is sent by the terminal to the server.

[0567] Specific actions

[0568] 1. The user enters the required user information on the registration page.

[0569] 2. The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[0570] Step 2:

[0571] Enter Save User Information

[0572] The server receives the received user information and stores it in a database, with the password hashed.

[0573] Save User Information Output

[0574] The hashed user information is stored in a database.

[0575] Specific actions

[0576] 1. The server analyzes the received user information and hashes the password.

[0577] 2. Store hashed user information in a database.

[0578] Step 3:

[0579] Enter user login

[0580] The user enters their username and password on the login page and sends the authentication information from their device to the server.

[0581] User login output

[0582] The authentication information is sent to the server, which authenticates the user.

[0583] Specific actions

[0584] 1. The user enters their username and password on the login page.

[0585] 2. The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0586] Step 4:

[0587] Input for authentication and session ID generation

[0588] The server checks the received credentials against the information in its database: the password is compared to a hash value.

[0589] Authentication and session ID generation output

[0590] If authentication is successful, the server generates a unique session ID and returns it to the terminal.

[0591] Specific actions

[0592] 1. The server compares the password hash value against the information in its database.

[0593] 2. If authentication is successful, a session ID is generated and returned to the terminal.

[0594] Step 5:

[0595] Entering an olfactory data request

[0596] The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, and based on this scene, the device sends a request for olfactory data to the server.

[0597] Output of olfactory data request

[0598] A request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene is sent to the server.

[0599] Specific actions

[0600] 1. The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space.

[0601] 2. The device sends a request for olfactory data to the server based on the scene ID.

[0602] Step 6:

[0603] Input for olfactory data generation

[0604] The server analyzes the received request and generates scent characteristics using the olfactory generation assistance system, using a prompt such as "Please generate a forest scent."

[0605] Olfactory data generation output

[0606] The generated scent signatures are taken from a database or created by a generative AI model.

[0607] Specific actions

[0608] 1. The server analyzes the request and sends a prompt to the olfactory generation assistance system.

[0609] 2. The olfactory generation assistance system generates the scent characteristics and sends them back to the server.

[0610] Step 7:

[0611] Compression and delivery of olfactory data input

[0612] The server compresses the generated olfactory data using a compression algorithm to reduce the data size.

[0613] Olfactory data compression and delivery output

[0614] The compressed olfactory data is sent to the terminal.

[0615] Specific actions

[0616] 1. The server compresses the generated olfactory data.

[0617] 2. Send the compressed data to the terminal.

[0618] Step 8:

[0619] Input for decoding data and generating control signals

[0620] The terminal decodes the received compressed data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device based on the decoded data.

[0621] Output of data decoding and control signal generation

[0622] The decoded data is sent to an olfactory output device, which generates a control signal.

[0623] Specific actions

[0624] 1. The terminal decodes the received compressed data.

[0625] 2. Based on the decoded data, a control signal is generated and transmitted to the olfactory output device.

[0626] Step 9:

[0627] Scent generation input

[0628] The olfactory output device receives a control signal and produces a designated scent.

[0629] Scent generation output

[0630] The resulting scent is provided to the user.

[0631] Specific actions

[0632] 1. The olfactory output device receives a control signal.

[0633] 2. Generate the specified scent and provide it to the user.

[0634] Through this series of steps, users can enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse.

[0635] (Application example 1)

[0636] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0637] Modern virtual reality and metaverse experiences rely on sight and hearing, but olfactory stimulation is essential to enhance the user's sense of immersion. However, current technology lacks the means to generate and provide scents tailored to the scene in the virtual world in real time. Furthermore, to further enrich the viewing experience of video content, providing scents tailored to the scene being viewed is required, but there are many challenges to achieving this. The objective of this invention is to solve these problems and significantly improve the immersive experience of virtual reality and video content.

[0638] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0639] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, and means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data.

[0640] This allows olfactory data to be generated and distributed in real time based on scenes in virtual reality or the metaverse, or even specific scenes while watching video content, allowing users to instantly experience the scent corresponding to that scene.

[0641] "User" refers to a person who creates an account and logs in to use the system.

[0642] "Terminal" refers to a device that sends requests for olfactory data to a server and decodes the received olfactory data.

[0643] "Olfactory data" refers to data for generating a specific scent.

[0644] "Server" refers to the computer system responsible for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0645] "Encoding" refers to the process of converting data into a specific format for transmission or storage.

[0646] "Decoding" refers to the process of returning encoded data to its original form.

[0647] "Olfactory device" refers to a device that generates a scent based on received olfactory data.

[0648] "System" refers to a set of functions including users, terminals, servers, and olfactory devices.

[0649] "Video content" refers to content that can be viewed, such as movies and dramas.

[0650] "Scene" refers to a specific scene within virtual reality or video content.

[0651] "Olfactory generative AI" refers to artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on received requests.

[0652] The present invention is a system for enhancing the immersive experience by allowing users to experience scents that correspond to scenes in virtual reality or video content. The main components of this system include a user, a terminal, a server, and an olfactory device.

[0653] System Program

[0654] User Registration and Login

[0655] Users first create an account on the system and log in. This allows the system to manage the user's authentication information and establish a session. The hardware used is a smartphone or PC, and the software used on the server side is a web framework such as Flask.

[0656] Olfactory Data Request

[0657] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. At this time, the device generates request data including scene information within the content and sends it to the server.

[0658] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0659] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. During this process, olfactory generation AI is utilized to create a specific scent profile. The server encodes this profile and sends it to the device. The software used here is likely to use SQLite as a database.

[0660] Receiving and decoding olfactory data

[0661] The terminal decodes the received olfactory data and transmits control signals to the olfactory device. The terminal can be a smartphone or a PC, and appropriate libraries and functions are used for the decoding process.

[0662] Providing an olfactory experience

[0663] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience the scent corresponding to a specific scene in the video content. A typical example of an olfactory device is FeelReal.

[0664] Specific examples

[0665] For example, when a user watches an ocean scene in a movie, the device requests data on the "scent of the ocean." The server generates scent data corresponding to the ocean scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "scent of the ocean" and provides it to the user.

[0666] Example prompts for generative AI models

[0667] "Generate scent profiles corresponding to the following movie scenes:

[0668] Movie: Sea Adventure

[0669] Scene ID: 10

[0670] Scene description: The main characters are sailing on the ocean.

[0671] Scent required: The scent of the sea

[0672] The above is a specific example of a system for implementing the invention. This system can further enrich the viewing experience of virtual reality and video content, dramatically improving the user's sense of immersion.

[0673] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0674] Step 1:

[0675] User Account Creation and Login

[0676] The user accesses the account creation page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address. This information is sent from the device to the server, and the server stores the received information in a database. When the user logs in, they enter their username and password on the login screen, and the authentication information is sent from the device to the server. The server compares it with the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0677] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[0678] Output: Session ID (after login)

[0679] Step 2:

[0680] Request for olfactory data

[0681] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The device generates request data including the video scene information (such as the scene ID and timestamp) and sends it to the server.

[0682] Input: Scene ID, timestamp

[0683] Output: Request for olfactory data

[0684] Step 3:

[0685] Generation of olfactory data

[0686] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. The olfactory generation AI in the server creates a scent profile corresponding to the requested scene. This profile is encoded so that the olfactory device can generate the appropriate scent.

[0687] Input: Scene ID, request data

[0688] Output: Encoded olfactory data

[0689] Step 4:

[0690] Olfactory data distribution

[0691] The server delivers the generated encoded olfactory data to the terminal, which prepares to decode the received olfactory data.

[0692] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[0693] Output: Olfactory data ready to be decoded

[0694] Step 5:

[0695] Decoding olfactory data

[0696] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data, and the decoded data is converted into a control signal to be transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0697] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[0698] Output: Decoded control signal

[0699] Step 6:

[0700] Providing an olfactory experience

[0701] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the scene in the video content.

[0702] Input: Decoded control signal

[0703] Output: Specified scent (olfactory experience)

[0704] The above is the flow of processing in the program for the system that realizes the application example. By clearly showing the specific operations and inputs and outputs of each step, the operation of the system can be understood in detail.

[0705] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0706] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0707] Furthermore, the present invention is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, thereby optimizing the olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state.

[0708] Program processing

[0709] User Registration and Login

[0710] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the entered information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database to complete the registration. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the terminal sends the authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[0711] Selection and request of olfactory data

[0712] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or in a game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[0713] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0714] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[0715] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[0716] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the virtual space or in-game scene.

[0717] Introducing the Emotion Engine

[0718] As a further improvement, this system is equipped with an emotion engine. Data is collected using sensors to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data.

[0719] Specific examples

[0720] A user may wish to enter a virtual forest and request a forest scent to match the scene. Furthermore, if the emotion engine collects the user's emotional data and determines that the user is seeking relaxation, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The server receives this data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes it and sends a signal to the olfactory device, which then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[0721] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0722] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0723] Step 1:

[0724] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[0725] Step 2:

[0726] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[0727] Step 3:

[0728] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[0729] Step 4:

[0730] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[0731] Step 5:

[0732] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0733] Step 6:

[0734] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[0735] Step 7:

[0736] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[0737] Step 8:

[0738] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[0739] Step 9:

[0740] The terminal acquires the emotion data through a sensor for collecting the user's emotion data.

[0741] Step 10:

[0742] An emotion engine analyzes the collected emotion data to determine the user's emotional state.

[0743] Step 11:

[0744] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the olfactory generation AI to generate optimal olfactory data.

[0745] Step 12:

[0746] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates olfactory data based on the received emotion analysis results and the scene.

[0747] Step 13:

[0748] The olfactory data generated by the server is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[0749] Step 14:

[0750] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[0751] Step 15:

[0752] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[0753] Step 16:

[0754] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0755] Step 17:

[0756] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[0757] Step 18:

[0758] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[0759] Example 2

[0760] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0761] Providing users with an olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse has not been fully realized with existing technologies. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to optimize the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state. As a result, the user's sense of immersion and the quality of the experience are not sufficiently improved.

[0762] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data, means for creating a specific scent profile based on a request received by the olfactory generation AI, and means for sending instructions to the emotion engine to generate optimal olfactory data based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to provide an advanced olfactory experience that reflects the user's emotional state.

[0763] "Account" means an identifier that includes the login information required for a User to access the System.

[0764] "Device" refers to an electronic device used by a user, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[0765] A "server" is a computer system capable of receiving requests from users and generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0766] "Olfactory data" is a data format that contains the information necessary to reproduce a specific scent.

[0767] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a particular format for transmission.

[0768] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[0769] A "control signal" is a signal that contains instructions to cause an olfactory device to produce a particular scent.

[0770] An "olfactory device" is a device that generates a specified scent based on decoded olfactory data.

[0771] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates optimal olfactory data based on that data.

[0772] "Olfactory generation AI" is an artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on user requests and the analysis results of an emotion engine.

[0773] A "prompt" is an instruction given to the olfactory generation AI to generate a specific scent.

[0774] The present invention is a system that provides a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0775] First, the user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, and the server completes registration by storing the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the device sends authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0776] Next, when the user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[0777] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the prompt sentence, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device based on this data.

[0778] Furthermore, sensors are used to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, instructions are sent to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. This makes it possible to provide a customized olfactory experience according to the user's emotions.

[0779] For example, if a user enters a virtual forest area and requests a "forest scent" prompt, the emotion engine may also detect that the user is seeking relaxation. In this case, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The generated data is encoded and sent to the device by the server. The device decodes the data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[0780] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0781] Example prompt sentence:

[0782] "Generate a forest scent"

[0783] "Users want relaxation. Add a relaxing scent."

[0784] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0785] Step 1:

[0786] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information (username, password, email address). Input information: username, password, email address. Output: registration request.

[0787] The device sends this input information to the server. Input information: User name, password, email address. Output: Sent data.

[0788] Step 2:

[0789] The server processes the received registration request and completes the registration by saving the input information in the database. Input information: Username, password, email address. Output: Registration completion notification.

[0790] The server returns a registration completion notification to the terminal. Input information: Registration completion notification. Output: Notification to the user.

[0791] Step 3:

[0792] A user attempts to log in by entering a username and password on a login page. Input: username, password. Output: login request.

[0793] The device sends this login request to the server. Input information: username, password. Output: sent data.

[0794] Step 4:

[0795] The server receives the authentication information and checks the username and password. Input information: username, password. Output: authentication result.

[0796] If authentication is successful, the server generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. Input information: Authentication result (success). Output: Session ID.

[0797] Step 5:

[0798] The user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game. Input information: User action (moving to a specific scene). Output: Scene information.

[0799] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server. Input information: Scene information. Output: Olfactory data request.

[0800] Step 6:

[0801] The server receives the request and creates a prompt for the olfactory generation AI if necessary. Input information: Olfactory data request. Output: Prompt.

[0802] The olfactory generation AI on the server generates olfactory data based on the prompt. Input information: Prompt. Output: Olfactory data.

[0803] Step 7:

[0804] The server encodes the generated olfactory data and sends it to the terminal. Input information: olfactory data. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[0805] The terminal receives the encoded olfactory data and decodes it. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Decoded olfactory data.

[0806] Step 8:

[0807] The terminal transmits a control signal to the olfactory device based on the decoded olfactory data. Input information: Decoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[0808] The olfactory device generates a specified scent based on the received control signal and provides it to the user. Input information: Control signal. Output: Generated scent.

[0809] Step 9:

[0810] The user experiences the generated scent. Input information: Generated scent. Output: Olfactory experience.

[0811] Step 10:

[0812] It uses sensors to recognize the user's emotional state. Input information: sensor data. Output: emotional state data.

[0813] The emotion engine analyzes the data collected from the sensors. Input information: Emotional state data. Output: Analysis results.

[0814] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. Input information: Analysis results. Output: Olfactory generation instructions.

[0815] Step 11:

[0816] The server generates olfactory data based on instructions from the emotion engine, encodes it, and sends it to the device. Input information: olfactory generation instructions. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[0817] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[0818] The olfactory device generates an optimized scent and provides it to the user. Input information: control signal. Output: optimized scent.

[0819] The above is the specific processing procedure of this system.

[0820] (Application example 2)

[0821] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0822] Current virtual reality and metaverse spaces primarily rely on visual and auditory experiences, with few olfactory experiences being realized. This results in a lack of realism and immersion when users shop or experience things in virtual spaces. Furthermore, there are insufficient means to provide optimal olfactory experiences tailored to the user's emotional state. In particular, there is a need to realize a more realistic and engaging shopping experience in virtual stores by providing scents related to selected products when the user selects them.

[0823] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0824] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the olfactory data received and send a control signal to the olfactory device, means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions, means for optimizing the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state based on the emotion engine, and means for providing a scent related to a product selected by the user in a virtual store. This makes it possible to provide a high level of immersion in virtual reality and metaverse spaces and an optimal olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state.

[0825] "User" refers to a person who uses the system.

[0826] "Account" means the registration information, including the unique identification information, that a User creates to access the System.

[0827] "Login" is the process by which a user enters their account information and accesses the system.

[0828] "Terminal" means the electronic device used by a User to operate the System.

[0829] "Olfactory data" is information data that expresses a specific scent.

[0830] A "server" is a central processing unit for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[0831] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a certain format.

[0832] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[0833] An "olfactory device" is a hardware device that provides a specific scent to a user.

[0834] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates the optimal olfactory experience based on the results.

[0835] A "virtual store" is a virtual shopping environment that exists within virtual reality or the metaverse.

[0836] "Generative AI" is an artificial intelligence model that generates scent profiles based on specific input data.

[0837] An "aroma profile" is a detailed data set that recreates a specific scent.

[0838] The present invention is a system that provides an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. This system includes a process in which a user creates an account and logs in, a terminal sends a request for olfactory data, and a server generates, encodes, and distributes the olfactory data. A specific embodiment for realizing this system is described below.

[0839] Overall system configuration

[0840] 1. Create a user account and log in

[0841] The user accesses the system's registration page using a terminal and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. When logging in, the user enters authentication information and sends it from the terminal to the server. The server performs authentication, and if successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[0842] 2. Requesting and generating olfactory data

[0843] When a user selects a product in the virtual store, a request is sent from the device to the server to provide the scent associated with that product. Upon receiving the request, the server uses a generative AI model to generate a specific scent profile, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[0844] 3. Decoding and Delivery of Olfactory Data

[0845] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[0846] 4. Use of Emotion Engine

[0847] The emotion engine collects and analyzes data from sensors that recognize the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate olfactory data that is optimal for the user's emotional state. This allows it to provide the appropriate scent when the user is seeking a relaxing effect.

[0848] Hardware and software used

[0849] Terminal: An electronic device operated by a user (e.g., a smartphone, a head-mounted display)

[0850] Server: Central processing unit (e.g., cloud server)

[0851] Database: Storage for saving user information (e.g. Firebase)

[0852] Olfactory device: Hardware that generates scents (e.g., OVR Technology)

[0853] Emotion engine: software that analyzes user emotions

[0854] Generative AI model: An artificial intelligence model for generating olfactory data

[0855] Specific examples

[0856] When a user enters the cafe area of ​​the virtual store, the scent is generated as follows:

[0857] 1. When a user enters the cafe area, the device sends a request to the server to "generate the scent of the cafe area."

[0858] 2. The server generates olfactory data for the generative AI model using the following prompt:

[0859] Prompt statement:

[0860] The user enters the cafe area. Generate the aroma of coffee and baked goods. Based on the emotional data, add the relaxing scent of herbs.

[0861] 3. The generated olfactory data is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[0862] 4. The device decodes the data and sends it to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[0863] In this way, the system provides an advanced olfactory experience in the virtual space, optimizing the experience according to the user's emotional state. It also provides scents related to selected products when the user selects them in the virtual store, creating an engaging shopping experience.

[0864] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0865] Step 1:

[0866] User Registration and Login

[0867] A user accesses the account creation page and enters a username, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server. The server stores the received information in a database and completes the registration. When logging in, the user enters their authentication information and the device sends that information to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with the database, and if it matches, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0868] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[0869] Output: Session ID

[0870] Step 2:

[0871] Olfactory data request when moving between scenes

[0872] When a user moves to a specific scene (such as a cafe area) in a virtual store, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives this request and inputs the corresponding prompt sentence into the generative AI model.

[0873] Input: Identification information for a specific scene

[0874] Output: prompt statement

[0875] Step 3:

[0876] Olfactory data generation

[0877] The server's generative AI model generates a specific scent profile based on the received prompt, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[0878] Input: prompt statement

[0879] Output: Encoded scent profile

[0880] Step 4:

[0881] Decoding and delivering olfactory data

[0882] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server, and the decoded data is sent to the olfactory device as a control signal.

[0883] Input: Encoded scent profile

[0884] Output: Decoded scent data

[0885] Step 5:

[0886] Scent generation by olfactory devices

[0887] Based on the control signal received, the olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user, allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience within the virtual space.

[0888] Input: Decoded scent data

[0889] Output: Generated scent

[0890] Step 6:

[0891] Use of emotion engine

[0892] To analyze the user's emotions, the device collects emotional data from the emotion sensor and sends it to the server. The server's emotion engine analyzes the emotional data and issues instructions to generate the optimal olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state. The server then sends new prompts to the generative AI model based on these instructions.

[0893] Input: Emotion data from emotion sensors

[0894] Output: Prompt sentence optimized for the user's emotional state

[0895] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart glasses 214. In the smart glasses 214, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0896] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0897] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the smart glasses 214.

[0898] [Third embodiment]

[0899] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0900] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset type terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0901] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0902] The headset type terminal 314 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a display 343. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the display 343 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0903] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0904] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0905] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0906] Fig. 6 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the headset type terminal 314. As shown in Fig. 6, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0907] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0908] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0909] In the headset type terminal 314, a reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0910] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0911] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, and means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device.

[0912] To implement this system, the program operates as follows.

[0913] User Registration and Login

[0914] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password on the login screen, and the device sends the authentication information to the server. The server compares the information with the database, and if authentication is successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[0915] Selection and request of olfactory data

[0916] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, retrieves and encodes olfactory data generated using olfactory generation AI from the database. The encoded olfactory data is then delivered from the server to the device.

[0917] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[0918] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[0919] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[0920] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience scents that correspond to the scene in the virtual space or game.

[0921] Specific examples

[0922] For example, suppose a user wants to enter a virtual forest. The device requests "forest scent" data and sends it to the server. The server generates scent data corresponding to the forest scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "forest scent," allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience as if they were actually there.

[0923] In this way, the system can provide users with an advanced olfactory experience and significantly improve the immersion of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[0924] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0925] Step 1:

[0926] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[0927] Step 2:

[0928] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[0929] Step 3:

[0930] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[0931] Step 4:

[0932] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[0933] Step 5:

[0934] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[0935] Step 6:

[0936] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[0937] Step 7:

[0938] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[0939] Step 8:

[0940] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[0941] Step 9:

[0942] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data, if necessary, using an olfactory generation AI.

[0943] Step 10:

[0944] The olfactory data generated by the server is retrieved from the database, encoded, and sent to the terminal.

[0945] Step 11:

[0946] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[0947] Step 12:

[0948] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[0949] Step 13:

[0950] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[0951] Step 14:

[0952] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[0953] Step 15:

[0954] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[0955] Example 1

[0956] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0957] There is a need for a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in any scene in virtual reality or the metaverse. Existing technologies have difficulty in effectively generating, delivering, and decoding olfactory data, and transmitting control signals to olfactory devices, making it difficult for users to obtain a consistent experience. In particular, generating and delivering olfactory data in real time in dynamic environments has been difficult.

[0958] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0959] In this invention, the server includes means for generating olfactory data using an olfactory generation assistance system, means for compressing the generated olfactory data and transmitting it to a terminal, and means for generating scent characteristics using prompts based on a request received from the terminal, thereby enabling a user to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0960] A "user" is an entity that utilizes the system and is an individual who seeks to enjoy an olfactory experience within the virtual reality or metaverse space.

[0961] A "terminal" is a device operated by a user, which transmits requests for olfactory data, decodes the received data, and transmits control signals to the olfactory output device.

[0962] The "server" is a central device that receives requests from terminals, generates olfactory data, compresses it, and transfers it.

[0963] The "olfactory generation assistance system" is a system that generates scent characteristics based on a received request and provides olfactory data to a server.

[0964] "Olfactory data" is data used to describe a particular scent, and is generated on the server as a profile.

[0965] A "prompt" is information provided by the server as instructions or questions for the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics.

[0966] A "control signal" is a signal generated by a terminal to control an olfactory output device based on olfactory data received by the terminal.

[0967] An "olfactory output device" is a device that generates a specific scent based on a control signal and provides it to the user.

[0968] "Compression" is a process for reducing the size of data, and is performed to efficiently transmit olfactory data from a server to a terminal.

[0969] "Decoding" is the process of restoring compressed data to its original form, and is a process performed by the terminal to decode the olfactory data received.

[0970] This invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, compress, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory output device, and means for the olfactory output device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[0971] Hardware and software used

[0972] Hardware: Olfactory output device (e.g., a general olfactory output device)

[0973] Software: Olfactory generative assistance systems (e.g., using generative AI models), database systems, authentication systems

[0974] Flow of olfactory data generation and processing

[0975] User Registration and Login

[0976] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information.

[0977] The terminal transmits this information to the server.

[0978] The server stores the received information in a database and verifies the information entered when logging in.

[0979] Requesting and generating olfactory data

[0980] When a user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server.

[0981] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data using the olfactory generation assistance system, where the generative AI model generates scent characteristics based on the prompt text.

[0982] Data Compression and Distribution

[0983] The server compresses the generated olfactory data and transfers it to the terminal using a data compression algorithm.

[0984] The terminal decodes the received data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0985] Scent generation with olfactory devices

[0986] The olfactory output device generates specific scents based on control signals, allowing users to enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual spaces or the metaverse.

[0987] Specific examples

[0988] For example, in a scene where a user enters a virtual forest, the following process is executed.

[0989] 1. The user navigates to a virtual forest scene.

[0990] 2. The device requests the "forest scent" data and sends it to the server.

[0991] 3. The server uses the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics based on the following prompt: "Generate a forest scent."

[0992] 4. The olfactory generation assistance system generates a specific scent profile, which the server compresses and sends to the terminal.

[0993] 5. The terminal decodes the data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[0994] 6. The olfactory output device generates a "forest scent," and by smelling this scent, the user can have a realistic olfactory experience in a virtual forest.

[0995] Through this system, users will be able to enjoy richer and more realistic experiences in virtual reality and the metaverse.

[0996] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0997] Step 1:

[0998] User registration input

[0999] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters information such as a username, password, and email address. User information is generated based on this input data.

[1000] User registration output

[1001] The entered information is sent by the terminal to the server.

[1002] Specific actions

[1003] 1. The user enters the required user information on the registration page.

[1004] 2. The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[1005] Step 2:

[1006] Enter Save User Information

[1007] The server receives the received user information and stores it in a database, with the password hashed.

[1008] Save User Information Output

[1009] The hashed user information is stored in a database.

[1010] Specific actions

[1011] 1. The server analyzes the received user information and hashes the password.

[1012] 2. Store hashed user information in a database.

[1013] Step 3:

[1014] Enter user login

[1015] The user enters their username and password on the login page and sends the authentication information from their device to the server.

[1016] User login output

[1017] The authentication information is sent to the server, which authenticates the user.

[1018] Specific actions

[1019] 1. The user enters their username and password on the login page.

[1020] 2. The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[1021] Step 4:

[1022] Input for authentication and session ID generation

[1023] The server checks the received credentials against the information in its database: the password is compared to a hash value.

[1024] Authentication and session ID generation output

[1025] If authentication is successful, the server generates a unique session ID and returns it to the terminal.

[1026] Specific actions

[1027] 1. The server compares the password hash value against the information in its database.

[1028] 2. If authentication is successful, a session ID is generated and returned to the terminal.

[1029] Step 5:

[1030] Entering an olfactory data request

[1031] The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, and based on this scene, the device sends a request for olfactory data to the server.

[1032] Output of olfactory data request

[1033] A request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene is sent to the server.

[1034] Specific actions

[1035] 1. The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space.

[1036] 2. The device sends a request for olfactory data to the server based on the scene ID.

[1037] Step 6:

[1038] Input for olfactory data generation

[1039] The server analyzes the received request and generates scent characteristics using the olfactory generation assistance system, using a prompt such as "Please generate a forest scent."

[1040] Olfactory data generation output

[1041] The generated scent signatures are taken from a database or created by a generative AI model.

[1042] Specific actions

[1043] 1. The server analyzes the request and sends a prompt to the olfactory generation assistance system.

[1044] 2. The olfactory generation assistance system generates the scent characteristics and sends them back to the server.

[1045] Step 7:

[1046] Compression and delivery of olfactory data input

[1047] The server compresses the generated olfactory data using a compression algorithm to reduce the data size.

[1048] Olfactory data compression and delivery output

[1049] The compressed olfactory data is sent to the terminal.

[1050] Specific actions

[1051] 1. The server compresses the generated olfactory data.

[1052] 2. Send the compressed data to the terminal.

[1053] Step 8:

[1054] Input for decoding data and generating control signals

[1055] The terminal decodes the received compressed data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device based on the decoded data.

[1056] Output of data decoding and control signal generation

[1057] The decoded data is sent to an olfactory output device, which generates a control signal.

[1058] Specific actions

[1059] 1. The terminal decodes the received compressed data.

[1060] 2. Based on the decoded data, a control signal is generated and transmitted to the olfactory output device.

[1061] Step 9:

[1062] Scent generation input

[1063] The olfactory output device receives a control signal and produces a designated scent.

[1064] Scent generation output

[1065] The resulting scent is provided to the user.

[1066] Specific actions

[1067] 1. The olfactory output device receives a control signal.

[1068] 2. Generate the specified scent and provide it to the user.

[1069] Through this series of steps, users can enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse.

[1070] (Application example 1)

[1071] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1072] Modern virtual reality and metaverse experiences rely on sight and hearing, but olfactory stimulation is essential to enhance the user's sense of immersion. However, current technology lacks the means to generate and provide scents tailored to the scene in the virtual world in real time. Furthermore, to further enrich the viewing experience of video content, providing scents tailored to the scene being viewed is required, but there are many challenges to achieving this. The objective of this invention is to solve these problems and significantly improve the immersive experience of virtual reality and video content.

[1073] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[1074] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, and means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data.

[1075] This allows olfactory data to be generated and distributed in real time based on scenes in virtual reality or the metaverse, or even specific scenes while watching video content, allowing users to instantly experience the scent corresponding to that scene.

[1076] "User" refers to a person who creates an account and logs in to use the system.

[1077] "Terminal" refers to a device that sends requests for olfactory data to a server and decodes the received olfactory data.

[1078] "Olfactory data" refers to data for generating a specific scent.

[1079] "Server" refers to the computer system responsible for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1080] "Encoding" refers to the process of converting data into a specific format for transmission or storage.

[1081] "Decoding" refers to the process of returning encoded data to its original form.

[1082] "Olfactory device" refers to a device that generates a scent based on received olfactory data.

[1083] "System" refers to a set of functions including users, terminals, servers, and olfactory devices.

[1084] "Video content" refers to content that can be viewed, such as movies and dramas.

[1085] "Scene" refers to a specific scene within virtual reality or video content.

[1086] "Olfactory generative AI" refers to artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on received requests.

[1087] The present invention is a system for enhancing the immersive experience by allowing users to experience scents that correspond to scenes in virtual reality or video content. The main components of this system include a user, a terminal, a server, and an olfactory device.

[1088] System Program

[1089] User Registration and Login

[1090] Users first create an account on the system and log in. This allows the system to manage the user's authentication information and establish a session. The hardware used is a smartphone or PC, and the software used on the server side is a web framework such as Flask.

[1091] Olfactory Data Request

[1092] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. At this time, the device generates request data including scene information within the content and sends it to the server.

[1093] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[1094] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. During this process, olfactory generation AI is utilized to create a specific scent profile. The server encodes this profile and sends it to the device. The software used here is likely to use SQLite as a database.

[1095] Receiving and decoding olfactory data

[1096] The terminal decodes the received olfactory data and transmits control signals to the olfactory device. The terminal can be a smartphone or a PC, and appropriate libraries and functions are used for the decoding process.

[1097] Providing an olfactory experience

[1098] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience the scent corresponding to a specific scene in the video content. A typical example of an olfactory device is FeelReal.

[1099] Specific examples

[1100] For example, when a user watches an ocean scene in a movie, the device requests data on the "scent of the ocean." The server generates scent data corresponding to the ocean scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "scent of the ocean" and provides it to the user.

[1101] Example prompts for generative AI models

[1102] "Generate scent profiles corresponding to the following movie scenes:

[1103] Movie: Sea Adventure

[1104] Scene ID: 10

[1105] Scene description: The main characters are sailing on the ocean.

[1106] Scent required: The scent of the sea

[1107] The above is a specific example of a system for implementing the invention. This system can further enrich the viewing experience of virtual reality and video content, dramatically improving the user's sense of immersion.

[1108] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1109] Step 1:

[1110] User Account Creation and Login

[1111] The user accesses the account creation page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address. This information is sent from the device to the server, and the server stores the received information in a database. When the user logs in, they enter their username and password on the login screen, and the authentication information is sent from the device to the server. The server compares it with the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1112] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[1113] Output: Session ID (after login)

[1114] Step 2:

[1115] Request for olfactory data

[1116] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The device generates request data including the video scene information (such as the scene ID and timestamp) and sends it to the server.

[1117] Input: Scene ID, timestamp

[1118] Output: Request for olfactory data

[1119] Step 3:

[1120] Generation of olfactory data

[1121] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. The olfactory generation AI in the server creates a scent profile corresponding to the requested scene. This profile is encoded so that the olfactory device can generate the appropriate scent.

[1122] Input: Scene ID, request data

[1123] Output: Encoded olfactory data

[1124] Step 4:

[1125] Olfactory data distribution

[1126] The server delivers the generated encoded olfactory data to the terminal, which prepares to decode the received olfactory data.

[1127] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[1128] Output: Olfactory data ready to be decoded

[1129] Step 5:

[1130] Decoding olfactory data

[1131] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data, and the decoded data is converted into a control signal to be transmitted to the olfactory device.

[1132] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[1133] Output: Decoded control signal

[1134] Step 6:

[1135] Providing an olfactory experience

[1136] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the scene in the video content.

[1137] Input: Decoded control signal

[1138] Output: Specified scent (olfactory experience)

[1139] The above is the flow of processing in the program for the system that realizes the application example. By clearly showing the specific operations and inputs and outputs of each step, the operation of the system can be understood in detail.

[1140] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1141] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[1142] Furthermore, the present invention is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, thereby optimizing the olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state.

[1143] Program processing

[1144] User Registration and Login

[1145] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the entered information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database to complete the registration. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the terminal sends the authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[1146] Selection and request of olfactory data

[1147] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or in a game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[1148] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[1149] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[1150] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[1151] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the virtual space or in-game scene.

[1152] Introducing the Emotion Engine

[1153] As a further improvement, this system is equipped with an emotion engine. Data is collected using sensors to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data.

[1154] Specific examples

[1155] A user may wish to enter a virtual forest and request a forest scent to match the scene. Furthermore, if the emotion engine collects the user's emotional data and determines that the user is seeking relaxation, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The server receives this data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes it and sends a signal to the olfactory device, which then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[1156] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[1157] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1158] Step 1:

[1159] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[1160] Step 2:

[1161] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[1162] Step 3:

[1163] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[1164] Step 4:

[1165] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[1166] Step 5:

[1167] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[1168] Step 6:

[1169] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[1170] Step 7:

[1171] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[1172] Step 8:

[1173] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[1174] Step 9:

[1175] The terminal acquires the emotion data through a sensor for collecting the user's emotion data.

[1176] Step 10:

[1177] An emotion engine analyzes the collected emotion data to determine the user's emotional state.

[1178] Step 11:

[1179] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the olfactory generation AI to generate optimal olfactory data.

[1180] Step 12:

[1181] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates olfactory data based on the received emotion analysis results and the scene.

[1182] Step 13:

[1183] The olfactory data generated by the server is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[1184] Step 14:

[1185] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[1186] Step 15:

[1187] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[1188] Step 16:

[1189] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[1190] Step 17:

[1191] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[1192] Step 18:

[1193] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[1194] Example 2

[1195] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1196] Providing users with an olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse has not been fully realized with existing technologies. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to optimize the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state. As a result, the user's sense of immersion and the quality of the experience are not sufficiently improved.

[1197] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data, means for creating a specific scent profile based on a request received by the olfactory generation AI, and means for sending instructions to the emotion engine to generate optimal olfactory data based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to provide an advanced olfactory experience that reflects the user's emotional state.

[1198] "Account" means an identifier that includes the login information required for a User to access the System.

[1199] "Device" refers to an electronic device used by a user, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[1200] A "server" is a computer system capable of receiving requests from users and generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1201] "Olfactory data" is a data format that contains the information necessary to reproduce a specific scent.

[1202] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a particular format for transmission.

[1203] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[1204] A "control signal" is a signal that contains instructions to cause an olfactory device to produce a particular scent.

[1205] An "olfactory device" is a device that generates a specified scent based on decoded olfactory data.

[1206] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates optimal olfactory data based on that data.

[1207] "Olfactory generation AI" is an artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on user requests and the analysis results of an emotion engine.

[1208] A "prompt" is an instruction given to the olfactory generation AI to generate a specific scent.

[1209] The present invention is a system that provides a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[1210] First, the user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, and the server completes registration by storing the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the device sends authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1211] Next, when the user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[1212] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the prompt sentence, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device based on this data.

[1213] Furthermore, sensors are used to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, instructions are sent to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. This makes it possible to provide a customized olfactory experience according to the user's emotions.

[1214] For example, if a user enters a virtual forest area and requests a "forest scent" prompt, the emotion engine may also detect that the user is seeking relaxation. In this case, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The generated data is encoded and sent to the device by the server. The device decodes the data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[1215] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[1216] Example prompt sentence:

[1217] "Generate a forest scent"

[1218] "Users want relaxation. Add a relaxing scent."

[1219] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1220] Step 1:

[1221] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information (username, password, email address). Input information: username, password, email address. Output: registration request.

[1222] The device sends this input information to the server. Input information: User name, password, email address. Output: Sent data.

[1223] Step 2:

[1224] The server processes the received registration request and completes the registration by saving the input information in the database. Input information: Username, password, email address. Output: Registration completion notification.

[1225] The server returns a registration completion notification to the terminal. Input information: Registration completion notification. Output: Notification to the user.

[1226] Step 3:

[1227] A user attempts to log in by entering a username and password on a login page. Input: username, password. Output: login request.

[1228] The device sends this login request to the server. Input information: username, password. Output: sent data.

[1229] Step 4:

[1230] The server receives the authentication information and checks the username and password. Input information: username, password. Output: authentication result.

[1231] If authentication is successful, the server generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. Input information: Authentication result (success). Output: Session ID.

[1232] Step 5:

[1233] The user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game. Input information: User action (moving to a specific scene). Output: Scene information.

[1234] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server. Input information: Scene information. Output: Olfactory data request.

[1235] Step 6:

[1236] The server receives the request and creates a prompt for the olfactory generation AI if necessary. Input information: Olfactory data request. Output: Prompt.

[1237] The olfactory generation AI on the server generates olfactory data based on the prompt. Input information: Prompt. Output: Olfactory data.

[1238] Step 7:

[1239] The server encodes the generated olfactory data and sends it to the terminal. Input information: olfactory data. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[1240] The terminal receives the encoded olfactory data and decodes it. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Decoded olfactory data.

[1241] Step 8:

[1242] The terminal transmits a control signal to the olfactory device based on the decoded olfactory data. Input information: Decoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[1243] The olfactory device generates a specified scent based on the received control signal and provides it to the user. Input information: Control signal. Output: Generated scent.

[1244] Step 9:

[1245] The user experiences the generated scent. Input information: Generated scent. Output: Olfactory experience.

[1246] Step 10:

[1247] It uses sensors to recognize the user's emotional state. Input information: sensor data. Output: emotional state data.

[1248] The emotion engine analyzes the data collected from the sensors. Input information: Emotional state data. Output: Analysis results.

[1249] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. Input information: Analysis results. Output: Olfactory generation instructions.

[1250] Step 11:

[1251] The server generates olfactory data based on instructions from the emotion engine, encodes it, and sends it to the device. Input information: olfactory generation instructions. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[1252] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[1253] The olfactory device generates an optimized scent and provides it to the user. Input information: control signal. Output: optimized scent.

[1254] The above is the specific processing procedure of this system.

[1255] (Application example 2)

[1256] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1257] Current virtual reality and metaverse spaces primarily rely on visual and auditory experiences, with few olfactory experiences being realized. This results in a lack of realism and immersion when users shop or experience things in virtual spaces. Furthermore, there are insufficient means to provide optimal olfactory experiences tailored to the user's emotional state. In particular, there is a need to realize a more realistic and engaging shopping experience in virtual stores by providing scents related to selected products when the user selects them.

[1258] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1259] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the olfactory data received and send a control signal to the olfactory device, means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions, means for optimizing the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state based on the emotion engine, and means for providing a scent related to a product selected by the user in a virtual store. This makes it possible to provide a high level of immersion in virtual reality and metaverse spaces and an optimal olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state.

[1260] "User" refers to a person who uses the system.

[1261] "Account" means the registration information, including the unique identification information, that a User creates to access the System.

[1262] "Login" is the process by which a user enters their account information and accesses the system.

[1263] "Terminal" means the electronic device used by a User to operate the System.

[1264] "Olfactory data" is information data that expresses a specific scent.

[1265] A "server" is a central processing unit for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1266] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a certain format.

[1267] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[1268] An "olfactory device" is a hardware device that provides a specific scent to a user.

[1269] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates the optimal olfactory experience based on the results.

[1270] A "virtual store" is a virtual shopping environment that exists within virtual reality or the metaverse.

[1271] "Generative AI" is an artificial intelligence model that generates scent profiles based on specific input data.

[1272] An "aroma profile" is a detailed data set that recreates a specific scent.

[1273] The present invention is a system that provides an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. This system includes a process in which a user creates an account and logs in, a terminal sends a request for olfactory data, and a server generates, encodes, and distributes the olfactory data. A specific embodiment for realizing this system is described below.

[1274] Overall system configuration

[1275] 1. Create a user account and log in

[1276] The user accesses the system's registration page using a terminal and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. When logging in, the user enters authentication information and sends it from the terminal to the server. The server performs authentication, and if successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[1277] 2. Requesting and generating olfactory data

[1278] When a user selects a product in the virtual store, a request is sent from the device to the server to provide the scent associated with that product. Upon receiving the request, the server uses a generative AI model to generate a specific scent profile, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[1279] 3. Decoding and Delivery of Olfactory Data

[1280] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[1281] 4. Use of Emotion Engine

[1282] The emotion engine collects and analyzes data from sensors that recognize the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate olfactory data that is optimal for the user's emotional state. This allows it to provide the appropriate scent when the user is seeking a relaxing effect.

[1283] Hardware and software used

[1284] Terminal: An electronic device operated by a user (e.g., a smartphone, a head-mounted display)

[1285] Server: Central processing unit (e.g., cloud server)

[1286] Database: Storage for saving user information (e.g. Firebase)

[1287] Olfactory device: Hardware that generates scents (e.g., OVR Technology)

[1288] Emotion engine: software that analyzes user emotions

[1289] Generative AI model: An artificial intelligence model for generating olfactory data

[1290] Specific examples

[1291] When a user enters the cafe area of ​​the virtual store, the scent is generated as follows:

[1292] 1. When a user enters the cafe area, the device sends a request to the server to "generate the scent of the cafe area."

[1293] 2. The server generates olfactory data for the generative AI model using the following prompt:

[1294] Prompt statement:

[1295] The user enters the cafe area. Generate the aroma of coffee and baked goods. Based on the emotional data, add the relaxing scent of herbs.

[1296] 3. The generated olfactory data is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[1297] 4. The device decodes the data and sends it to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[1298] In this way, the system provides an advanced olfactory experience in the virtual space, optimizing the experience according to the user's emotional state. It also provides scents related to selected products when the user selects them in the virtual store, creating an engaging shopping experience.

[1299] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1300] Step 1:

[1301] User Registration and Login

[1302] A user accesses the account creation page and enters a username, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server. The server stores the received information in a database and completes the registration. When logging in, the user enters their authentication information and the device sends that information to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with the database, and if it matches, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1303] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[1304] Output: Session ID

[1305] Step 2:

[1306] Olfactory data request when moving between scenes

[1307] When a user moves to a specific scene (such as a cafe area) in a virtual store, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives this request and inputs the corresponding prompt sentence into the generative AI model.

[1308] Input: Identification information for a specific scene

[1309] Output: prompt statement

[1310] Step 3:

[1311] Olfactory data generation

[1312] The server's generative AI model generates a specific scent profile based on the received prompt, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[1313] Input: prompt statement

[1314] Output: Encoded scent profile

[1315] Step 4:

[1316] Decoding and delivering olfactory data

[1317] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server, and the decoded data is sent to the olfactory device as a control signal.

[1318] Input: Encoded scent profile

[1319] Output: Decoded scent data

[1320] Step 5:

[1321] Scent generation by olfactory devices

[1322] Based on the control signal received, the olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user, allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience within the virtual space.

[1323] Input: Decoded scent data

[1324] Output: Generated scent

[1325] Step 6:

[1326] Use of emotion engine

[1327] To analyze the user's emotions, the device collects emotional data from the emotion sensor and sends it to the server. The server's emotion engine analyzes the emotional data and issues instructions to generate the optimal olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state. The server then sends new prompts to the generative AI model based on these instructions.

[1328] Input: Emotion data from emotion sensors

[1329] Output: Prompt sentence optimized for the user's emotional state

[1330] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the headset type terminal 314. In the headset type terminal 314, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the display 343 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[1331] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[1332] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the headset type terminal 314.

[1333] [Fourth embodiment]

[1334] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1335] 7, a data processing system 410 includes a data processing device 12 and a robot 414. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[1336] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[1337] The robot 414 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a control target 443. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the control target 443 are also connected to the bus 52.

[1338] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[1339] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[1340] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[1341] The control object 443 includes a display device, LEDs in the eyes, and motors for driving the arms, hands, and feet. The posture and gestures of the robot 414 are controlled by controlling the motors of the arms, hands, and feet. Some of the emotions of the robot 414 can be expressed by controlling these motors. In addition, the facial expressions of the robot 414 can also be expressed by controlling the light emission state of the LEDs in the eyes of the robot 414.

[1342] Fig. 8 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the robot 414. As shown in Fig. 8, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[1343] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[1344] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[1345] In the robot 414, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[1346] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1347] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, and means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device.

[1348] To implement this system, the program operates as follows.

[1349] User Registration and Login

[1350] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password on the login screen, and the device sends the authentication information to the server. The server compares the information with the database, and if authentication is successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1351] Selection and request of olfactory data

[1352] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, retrieves and encodes olfactory data generated using olfactory generation AI from the database. The encoded olfactory data is then delivered from the server to the device.

[1353] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[1354] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[1355] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[1356] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience scents that correspond to the scene in the virtual space or game.

[1357] Specific examples

[1358] For example, suppose a user wants to enter a virtual forest. The device requests "forest scent" data and sends it to the server. The server generates scent data corresponding to the forest scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "forest scent," allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience as if they were actually there.

[1359] In this way, the system can provide users with an advanced olfactory experience and significantly improve the immersion of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[1360] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1361] Step 1:

[1362] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[1363] Step 2:

[1364] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[1365] Step 3:

[1366] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[1367] Step 4:

[1368] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[1369] Step 5:

[1370] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[1371] Step 6:

[1372] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[1373] Step 7:

[1374] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[1375] Step 8:

[1376] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[1377] Step 9:

[1378] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data, if necessary, using an olfactory generation AI.

[1379] Step 10:

[1380] The olfactory data generated by the server is retrieved from the database, encoded, and sent to the terminal.

[1381] Step 11:

[1382] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[1383] Step 12:

[1384] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[1385] Step 13:

[1386] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[1387] Step 14:

[1388] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[1389] Step 15:

[1390] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[1391] Example 1

[1392] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1393] There is a need for a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in any scene in virtual reality or the metaverse. Existing technologies have difficulty in effectively generating, delivering, and decoding olfactory data, and transmitting control signals to olfactory devices, making it difficult for users to obtain a consistent experience. In particular, generating and delivering olfactory data in real time in dynamic environments has been difficult.

[1394] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1395] In this invention, the server includes means for generating olfactory data using an olfactory generation assistance system, means for compressing the generated olfactory data and transmitting it to a terminal, and means for generating scent characteristics using prompts based on a request received from the terminal, thereby enabling a user to enjoy a realistic and immersive olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space.

[1396] A "user" is an entity that utilizes the system and is an individual who seeks to enjoy an olfactory experience within the virtual reality or metaverse space.

[1397] A "terminal" is a device operated by a user, which transmits requests for olfactory data, decodes the received data, and transmits control signals to the olfactory output device.

[1398] The "server" is a central device that receives requests from terminals, generates olfactory data, compresses it, and transfers it.

[1399] The "olfactory generation assistance system" is a system that generates scent characteristics based on a received request and provides olfactory data to a server.

[1400] "Olfactory data" is data used to describe a particular scent, and is generated on the server as a profile.

[1401] A "prompt" is information provided by the server as instructions or questions for the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics.

[1402] A "control signal" is a signal generated by a terminal to control an olfactory output device based on olfactory data received by the terminal.

[1403] An "olfactory output device" is a device that generates a specific scent based on a control signal and provides it to the user.

[1404] "Compression" is a process for reducing the size of data, and is performed to efficiently transmit olfactory data from a server to a terminal.

[1405] "Decoding" is the process of restoring compressed data to its original form, and is a process performed by the terminal to decode the olfactory data received.

[1406] This invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, compress, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory output device, and means for the olfactory output device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[1407] Hardware and software used

[1408] Hardware: Olfactory output device (e.g., a general olfactory output device)

[1409] Software: Olfactory generative assistance systems (e.g., using generative AI models), database systems, authentication systems

[1410] Flow of olfactory data generation and processing

[1411] User Registration and Login

[1412] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information.

[1413] The terminal transmits this information to the server.

[1414] The server stores the received information in a database and verifies the information entered when logging in.

[1415] Requesting and generating olfactory data

[1416] When a user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server.

[1417] The server receives the request and generates olfactory data using the olfactory generation assistance system, where the generative AI model generates scent characteristics based on the prompt text.

[1418] Data Compression and Distribution

[1419] The server compresses the generated olfactory data and transfers it to the terminal using a data compression algorithm.

[1420] The terminal decodes the received data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[1421] Scent generation with olfactory devices

[1422] The olfactory output device generates specific scents based on control signals, allowing users to enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual spaces or the metaverse.

[1423] Specific examples

[1424] For example, in a scene where a user enters a virtual forest, the following process is executed.

[1425] 1. The user navigates to a virtual forest scene.

[1426] 2. The device requests the "forest scent" data and sends it to the server.

[1427] 3. The server uses the olfactory generation assistance system to generate scent characteristics based on the following prompt: "Generate a forest scent."

[1428] 4. The olfactory generation assistance system generates a specific scent profile, which the server compresses and sends to the terminal.

[1429] 5. The terminal decodes the data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device.

[1430] 6. The olfactory output device generates a "forest scent," and by smelling this scent, the user can have a realistic olfactory experience in a virtual forest.

[1431] Through this system, users will be able to enjoy richer and more realistic experiences in virtual reality and the metaverse.

[1432] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1433] Step 1:

[1434] User registration input

[1435] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters information such as a username, password, and email address. User information is generated based on this input data.

[1436] User registration output

[1437] The entered information is sent by the terminal to the server.

[1438] Specific actions

[1439] 1. The user enters the required user information on the registration page.

[1440] 2. The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[1441] Step 2:

[1442] Enter Save User Information

[1443] The server receives the received user information and stores it in a database, with the password hashed.

[1444] Save User Information Output

[1445] The hashed user information is stored in a database.

[1446] Specific actions

[1447] 1. The server analyzes the received user information and hashes the password.

[1448] 2. Store hashed user information in a database.

[1449] Step 3:

[1450] Enter user login

[1451] The user enters their username and password on the login page and sends the authentication information from their device to the server.

[1452] User login output

[1453] The authentication information is sent to the server, which authenticates the user.

[1454] Specific actions

[1455] 1. The user enters their username and password on the login page.

[1456] 2. The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[1457] Step 4:

[1458] Input for authentication and session ID generation

[1459] The server checks the received credentials against the information in its database: the password is compared to a hash value.

[1460] Authentication and session ID generation output

[1461] If authentication is successful, the server generates a unique session ID and returns it to the terminal.

[1462] Specific actions

[1463] 1. The server compares the password hash value against the information in its database.

[1464] 2. If authentication is successful, a session ID is generated and returned to the terminal.

[1465] Step 5:

[1466] Entering an olfactory data request

[1467] The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space, and based on this scene, the device sends a request for olfactory data to the server.

[1468] Output of olfactory data request

[1469] A request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene is sent to the server.

[1470] Specific actions

[1471] 1. The user moves to a specific scene in the virtual space.

[1472] 2. The device sends a request for olfactory data to the server based on the scene ID.

[1473] Step 6:

[1474] Input for olfactory data generation

[1475] The server analyzes the received request and generates scent characteristics using the olfactory generation assistance system, using a prompt such as "Please generate a forest scent."

[1476] Olfactory data generation output

[1477] The generated scent signatures are taken from a database or created by a generative AI model.

[1478] Specific actions

[1479] 1. The server analyzes the request and sends a prompt to the olfactory generation assistance system.

[1480] 2. The olfactory generation assistance system generates the scent characteristics and sends them back to the server.

[1481] Step 7:

[1482] Compression and delivery of olfactory data input

[1483] The server compresses the generated olfactory data using a compression algorithm to reduce the data size.

[1484] Olfactory data compression and delivery output

[1485] The compressed olfactory data is sent to the terminal.

[1486] Specific actions

[1487] 1. The server compresses the generated olfactory data.

[1488] 2. Send the compressed data to the terminal.

[1489] Step 8:

[1490] Input for decoding data and generating control signals

[1491] The terminal decodes the received compressed data and sends a control signal to the olfactory output device based on the decoded data.

[1492] Output of data decoding and control signal generation

[1493] The decoded data is sent to an olfactory output device, which generates a control signal.

[1494] Specific actions

[1495] 1. The terminal decodes the received compressed data.

[1496] 2. Based on the decoded data, a control signal is generated and transmitted to the olfactory output device.

[1497] Step 9:

[1498] Scent generation input

[1499] The olfactory output device receives a control signal and produces a designated scent.

[1500] Scent generation output

[1501] The resulting scent is provided to the user.

[1502] Specific actions

[1503] 1. The olfactory output device receives a control signal.

[1504] 2. Generate the specified scent and provide it to the user.

[1505] Through this series of steps, users can enjoy a realistic olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse.

[1506] (Application example 1)

[1507] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1508] Modern virtual reality and metaverse experiences rely on sight and hearing, but olfactory stimulation is essential to enhance the user's sense of immersion. However, current technology lacks the means to generate and provide scents tailored to the scene in the virtual world in real time. Furthermore, to further enrich the viewing experience of video content, providing scents tailored to the scene being viewed is required, but there are many challenges to achieving this. The objective of this invention is to solve these problems and significantly improve the immersive experience of virtual reality and video content.

[1509] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[1510] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, and means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data.

[1511] This allows olfactory data to be generated and distributed in real time based on scenes in virtual reality or the metaverse, or even specific scenes while watching video content, allowing users to instantly experience the scent corresponding to that scene.

[1512] "User" refers to a person who creates an account and logs in to use the system.

[1513] "Terminal" refers to a device that sends requests for olfactory data to a server and decodes the received olfactory data.

[1514] "Olfactory data" refers to data for generating a specific scent.

[1515] "Server" refers to the computer system responsible for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1516] "Encoding" refers to the process of converting data into a specific format for transmission or storage.

[1517] "Decoding" refers to the process of returning encoded data to its original form.

[1518] "Olfactory device" refers to a device that generates a scent based on received olfactory data.

[1519] "System" refers to a set of functions including users, terminals, servers, and olfactory devices.

[1520] "Video content" refers to content that can be viewed, such as movies and dramas.

[1521] "Scene" refers to a specific scene within virtual reality or video content.

[1522] "Olfactory generative AI" refers to artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on received requests.

[1523] The present invention is a system for enhancing the immersive experience by allowing users to experience scents that correspond to scenes in virtual reality or video content. The main components of this system include a user, a terminal, a server, and an olfactory device.

[1524] System Program

[1525] User Registration and Login

[1526] Users first create an account on the system and log in. This allows the system to manage the user's authentication information and establish a session. The hardware used is a smartphone or PC, and the software used on the server side is a web framework such as Flask.

[1527] Olfactory Data Request

[1528] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. At this time, the device generates request data including scene information within the content and sends it to the server.

[1529] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[1530] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. During this process, olfactory generation AI is utilized to create a specific scent profile. The server encodes this profile and sends it to the device. The software used here is likely to use SQLite as a database.

[1531] Receiving and decoding olfactory data

[1532] The terminal decodes the received olfactory data and transmits control signals to the olfactory device. The terminal can be a smartphone or a PC, and appropriate libraries and functions are used for the decoding process.

[1533] Providing an olfactory experience

[1534] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience the scent corresponding to a specific scene in the video content. A typical example of an olfactory device is FeelReal.

[1535] Specific examples

[1536] For example, when a user watches an ocean scene in a movie, the device requests data on the "scent of the ocean." The server generates scent data corresponding to the ocean scent, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes the received data and sends a control signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device generates the "scent of the ocean" and provides it to the user.

[1537] Example prompts for generative AI models

[1538] "Generate scent profiles corresponding to the following movie scenes:

[1539] Movie: Sea Adventure

[1540] Scene ID: 10

[1541] Scene description: The main characters are sailing on the ocean.

[1542] Scent required: The scent of the sea

[1543] The above is a specific example of a system for implementing the invention. This system can further enrich the viewing experience of virtual reality and video content, dramatically improving the user's sense of immersion.

[1544] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1545] Step 1:

[1546] User Account Creation and Login

[1547] The user accesses the account creation page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address. This information is sent from the device to the server, and the server stores the received information in a database. When the user logs in, they enter their username and password on the login screen, and the authentication information is sent from the device to the server. The server compares it with the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1548] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[1549] Output: Session ID (after login)

[1550] Step 2:

[1551] Request for olfactory data

[1552] When a user moves to a specific scene while watching video content, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The device generates request data including the video scene information (such as the scene ID and timestamp) and sends it to the server.

[1553] Input: Scene ID, timestamp

[1554] Output: Request for olfactory data

[1555] Step 3:

[1556] Generation of olfactory data

[1557] The server generates olfactory data based on the received request. The olfactory generation AI in the server creates a scent profile corresponding to the requested scene. This profile is encoded so that the olfactory device can generate the appropriate scent.

[1558] Input: Scene ID, request data

[1559] Output: Encoded olfactory data

[1560] Step 4:

[1561] Olfactory data distribution

[1562] The server delivers the generated encoded olfactory data to the terminal, which prepares to decode the received olfactory data.

[1563] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[1564] Output: Olfactory data ready to be decoded

[1565] Step 5:

[1566] Decoding olfactory data

[1567] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data, and the decoded data is converted into a control signal to be transmitted to the olfactory device.

[1568] Input: Encoded olfactory data

[1569] Output: Decoded control signal

[1570] Step 6:

[1571] Providing an olfactory experience

[1572] The olfactory device receives a control signal from the device and generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the scene in the video content.

[1573] Input: Decoded control signal

[1574] Output: Specified scent (olfactory experience)

[1575] The above is the flow of processing in the program for the system that realizes the application example. By clearly showing the specific operations and inputs and outputs of each step, the operation of the system can be understood in detail.

[1576] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1577] The present invention is a system for providing a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[1578] Furthermore, the present invention is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, thereby optimizing the olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state.

[1579] Program processing

[1580] User Registration and Login

[1581] The user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the entered information to the server, which then stores the received information in a database to complete the registration. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the terminal sends the authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[1582] Selection and request of olfactory data

[1583] When a user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or in a game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[1584] Olfactory data generation and distribution

[1585] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the received request, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device.

[1586] Providing an olfactory experience to users

[1587] The terminal then sends the generated control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent, allowing the user to experience a scent that matches the virtual space or in-game scene.

[1588] Introducing the Emotion Engine

[1589] As a further improvement, this system is equipped with an emotion engine. Data is collected using sensors to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data.

[1590] Specific examples

[1591] A user may wish to enter a virtual forest and request a forest scent to match the scene. Furthermore, if the emotion engine collects the user's emotional data and determines that the user is seeking relaxation, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The server receives this data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device decodes it and sends a signal to the olfactory device, which then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[1592] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[1593] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1594] Step 1:

[1595] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a username, password, and email address.

[1596] Step 2:

[1597] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server.

[1598] Step 3:

[1599] The server stores the received information in a database and returns a registration completion message to the terminal.

[1600] Step 4:

[1601] The user enters their username and password on the login screen.

[1602] Step 5:

[1603] The device sends the authentication information to the server.

[1604] Step 6:

[1605] The server checks the entered information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. If authentication fails, it returns an error message.

[1606] Step 7:

[1607] The user is transported to a specific scene in the metaverse or game.

[1608] Step 8:

[1609] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server.

[1610] Step 9:

[1611] The terminal acquires the emotion data through a sensor for collecting the user's emotion data.

[1612] Step 10:

[1613] An emotion engine analyzes the collected emotion data to determine the user's emotional state.

[1614] Step 11:

[1615] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the olfactory generation AI to generate optimal olfactory data.

[1616] Step 12:

[1617] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates olfactory data based on the received emotion analysis results and the scene.

[1618] Step 13:

[1619] The olfactory data generated by the server is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[1620] Step 14:

[1621] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server.

[1622] Step 15:

[1623] The terminal generates a control signal for transmitting the decoded olfactory data to the olfactory device.

[1624] Step 16:

[1625] The control signal generated by the terminal is transmitted to the olfactory device.

[1626] Step 17:

[1627] The olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user.

[1628] Step 18:

[1629] Users experience scents that correspond to the virtual space or in-game scene through an olfactory device.

[1630] Example 2

[1631] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1632] Providing users with an olfactory experience in virtual reality or the metaverse has not been fully realized with existing technologies. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to optimize the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state. As a result, the user's sense of immersion and the quality of the experience are not sufficiently improved.

[1633] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data, means for creating a specific scent profile based on a request received by the olfactory generation AI, and means for sending instructions to the emotion engine to generate optimal olfactory data based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to provide an advanced olfactory experience that reflects the user's emotional state.

[1634] "Account" means an identifier that includes the login information required for a User to access the System.

[1635] "Device" refers to an electronic device used by a user, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet.

[1636] A "server" is a computer system capable of receiving requests from users and generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1637] "Olfactory data" is a data format that contains the information necessary to reproduce a specific scent.

[1638] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a particular format for transmission.

[1639] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[1640] A "control signal" is a signal that contains instructions to cause an olfactory device to produce a particular scent.

[1641] An "olfactory device" is a device that generates a specified scent based on decoded olfactory data.

[1642] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates optimal olfactory data based on that data.

[1643] "Olfactory generation AI" is an artificial intelligence that creates specific scent profiles based on user requests and the analysis results of an emotion engine.

[1644] A "prompt" is an instruction given to the olfactory generation AI to generate a specific scent.

[1645] The present invention is a system that provides a user with an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. The system includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for a terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for a server to generate, encode, and distribute the olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the received olfactory data and send a control signal to an olfactory device, and means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user.

[1646] First, the user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server, and the server completes registration by storing the received information in a database. When logging in, the user enters a user name and password, and the device sends authentication information to the server. If the server is successful in its authentication, it generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1647] Next, when the user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives the request and, if necessary, generates new olfactory data using the olfactory generation AI, encodes it, and sends it to the device.

[1648] The olfactory generation AI in the server generates a specific scent profile based on the prompt sentence, which is then encoded and sent to the device, which then decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends control signals to the olfactory device based on this data.

[1649] Furthermore, sensors are used to recognize the user's emotional state, and the emotion engine analyzes the data. Based on the analysis results, instructions are sent to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. This makes it possible to provide a customized olfactory experience according to the user's emotions.

[1650] For example, if a user enters a virtual forest area and requests a "forest scent" prompt, the emotion engine may also detect that the user is seeking relaxation. In this case, the olfactory generation AI generates data by adding a scent with a relaxing effect. The generated data is encoded and sent to the device by the server. The device decodes the data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. The olfactory device then generates a relaxing forest scent and provides it to the user.

[1651] In this way, the system not only provides an enhanced olfactory experience, but can also optimize the experience according to the user's emotional state, further enhancing the immersive feeling of virtual reality and metaverse spaces.

[1652] Example prompt sentence:

[1653] "Generate a forest scent"

[1654] "Users want relaxation. Add a relaxing scent."

[1655] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1656] Step 1:

[1657] A user accesses the system's registration page and enters the required information (username, password, email address). Input information: username, password, email address. Output: registration request.

[1658] The device sends this input information to the server. Input information: User name, password, email address. Output: Sent data.

[1659] Step 2:

[1660] The server processes the received registration request and completes the registration by saving the input information in the database. Input information: Username, password, email address. Output: Registration completion notification.

[1661] The server returns a registration completion notification to the terminal. Input information: Registration completion notification. Output: Notification to the user.

[1662] Step 3:

[1663] A user attempts to log in by entering a username and password on a login page. Input: username, password. Output: login request.

[1664] The device sends this login request to the server. Input information: username, password. Output: sent data.

[1665] Step 4:

[1666] The server receives the authentication information and checks the username and password. Input information: username, password. Output: authentication result.

[1667] If authentication is successful, the server generates a session ID and returns it to the terminal. Input information: Authentication result (success). Output: Session ID.

[1668] Step 5:

[1669] The user moves to a specific scene in the metaverse or game. Input information: User action (moving to a specific scene). Output: Scene information.

[1670] The device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to the scene to the server. Input information: Scene information. Output: Olfactory data request.

[1671] Step 6:

[1672] The server receives the request and creates a prompt for the olfactory generation AI if necessary. Input information: Olfactory data request. Output: Prompt.

[1673] The olfactory generation AI on the server generates olfactory data based on the prompt. Input information: Prompt. Output: Olfactory data.

[1674] Step 7:

[1675] The server encodes the generated olfactory data and sends it to the terminal. Input information: olfactory data. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[1676] The terminal receives the encoded olfactory data and decodes it. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Decoded olfactory data.

[1677] Step 8:

[1678] The terminal transmits a control signal to the olfactory device based on the decoded olfactory data. Input information: Decoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[1679] The olfactory device generates a specified scent based on the received control signal and provides it to the user. Input information: Control signal. Output: Generated scent.

[1680] Step 9:

[1681] The user experiences the generated scent. Input information: Generated scent. Output: Olfactory experience.

[1682] Step 10:

[1683] It uses sensors to recognize the user's emotional state. Input information: sensor data. Output: emotional state data.

[1684] The emotion engine analyzes the data collected from the sensors. Input information: Emotional state data. Output: Analysis results.

[1685] Based on the analysis results, the emotion engine sends instructions to the server to generate optimal olfactory data. Input information: Analysis results. Output: Olfactory generation instructions.

[1686] Step 11:

[1687] The server generates olfactory data based on instructions from the emotion engine, encodes it, and sends it to the device. Input information: olfactory generation instructions. Output: Encoded olfactory data.

[1688] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data and sends a signal to the olfactory device. Input information: Encoded olfactory data. Output: Control signal.

[1689] The olfactory device generates an optimized scent and provides it to the user. Input information: control signal. Output: optimized scent.

[1690] The above is the specific processing procedure of this system.

[1691] (Application example 2)

[1692] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1693] Current virtual reality and metaverse spaces primarily rely on visual and auditory experiences, with few olfactory experiences being realized. This results in a lack of realism and immersion when users shop or experience things in virtual spaces. Furthermore, there are insufficient means to provide optimal olfactory experiences tailored to the user's emotional state. In particular, there is a need to realize a more realistic and engaging shopping experience in virtual stores by providing scents related to selected products when the user selects them.

[1694] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1695] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to create an account and log in, means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data, means for the server to generate, encode, and distribute olfactory data, means for the terminal to decode the olfactory data received and send a control signal to the olfactory device, means for the olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to the user, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions, means for optimizing the olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state based on the emotion engine, and means for providing a scent related to a product selected by the user in a virtual store. This makes it possible to provide a high level of immersion in virtual reality and metaverse spaces and an optimal olfactory experience according to the user's emotional state.

[1696] "User" refers to a person who uses the system.

[1697] "Account" means the registration information, including the unique identification information, that a User creates to access the System.

[1698] "Login" is the process by which a user enters their account information and accesses the system.

[1699] "Terminal" means the electronic device used by a User to operate the System.

[1700] "Olfactory data" is information data that expresses a specific scent.

[1701] A "server" is a central processing unit for generating, encoding, and distributing olfactory data.

[1702] "Encoding" is the process of converting data into a certain format.

[1703] "Decoding" is the process of restoring encoded data to its original form.

[1704] An "olfactory device" is a hardware device that provides a specific scent to a user.

[1705] The "Emotion Engine" is a system that analyzes the user's emotional state and generates the optimal olfactory experience based on the results.

[1706] A "virtual store" is a virtual shopping environment that exists within virtual reality or the metaverse.

[1707] "Generative AI" is an artificial intelligence model that generates scent profiles based on specific input data.

[1708] An "aroma profile" is a detailed data set that recreates a specific scent.

[1709] The present invention is a system that provides an olfactory experience in a virtual reality or metaverse space. This system includes a process in which a user creates an account and logs in, a terminal sends a request for olfactory data, and a server generates, encodes, and distributes the olfactory data. A specific embodiment for realizing this system is described below.

[1710] Overall system configuration

[1711] 1. Create a user account and log in

[1712] The user accesses the system's registration page using a terminal and enters the required information, such as a user name, password, and email address. The terminal sends the input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. When logging in, the user enters authentication information and sends it from the terminal to the server. The server performs authentication, and if successful, generates a session ID and sends it back to the terminal.

[1713] 2. Requesting and generating olfactory data

[1714] When a user selects a product in the virtual store, a request is sent from the device to the server to provide the scent associated with that product. Upon receiving the request, the server uses a generative AI model to generate a specific scent profile, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[1715] 3. Decoding and Delivery of Olfactory Data

[1716] The terminal decodes the received encoded olfactory data and transmits a control signal to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[1717] 4. Use of Emotion Engine

[1718] The emotion engine collects and analyzes data from sensors that recognize the user's emotions. Based on the analysis results, it sends instructions to the server to generate olfactory data that is optimal for the user's emotional state. This allows it to provide the appropriate scent when the user is seeking a relaxing effect.

[1719] Hardware and software used

[1720] Terminal: An electronic device operated by a user (e.g., a smartphone, a head-mounted display)

[1721] Server: Central processing unit (e.g., cloud server)

[1722] Database: Storage for saving user information (e.g. Firebase)

[1723] Olfactory device: Hardware that generates scents (e.g., OVR Technology)

[1724] Emotion engine: software that analyzes user emotions

[1725] Generative AI model: An artificial intelligence model for generating olfactory data

[1726] Specific examples

[1727] When a user enters the cafe area of ​​the virtual store, the scent is generated as follows:

[1728] 1. When a user enters the cafe area, the device sends a request to the server to "generate the scent of the cafe area."

[1729] 2. The server generates olfactory data for the generative AI model using the following prompt:

[1730] Prompt statement:

[1731] The user enters the cafe area. Generate the aroma of coffee and baked goods. Based on the emotional data, add the relaxing scent of herbs.

[1732] 3. The generated olfactory data is encoded and sent to the terminal.

[1733] 4. The device decodes the data and sends it to the olfactory device, which then generates the specified scent and provides it to the user.

[1734] In this way, the system provides an advanced olfactory experience in the virtual space, optimizing the experience according to the user's emotional state. It also provides scents related to selected products when the user selects them in the virtual store, creating an engaging shopping experience.

[1735] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1736] Step 1:

[1737] User Registration and Login

[1738] A user accesses the account creation page and enters a username, password, and email address. The device sends this information to the server. The server stores the received information in a database and completes the registration. When logging in, the user enters their authentication information and the device sends that information to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with the database, and if it matches, generates a session ID and sends it back to the device.

[1739] Input: Username, Password, Email Address

[1740] Output: Session ID

[1741] Step 2:

[1742] Olfactory data request when moving between scenes

[1743] When a user moves to a specific scene (such as a cafe area) in a virtual store, the device sends a request for olfactory data corresponding to that scene to the server. The server receives this request and inputs the corresponding prompt sentence into the generative AI model.

[1744] Input: Identification information for a specific scene

[1745] Output: prompt statement

[1746] Step 3:

[1747] Olfactory data generation

[1748] The server's generative AI model generates a specific scent profile based on the received prompt, which is then encoded and sent to the device.

[1749] Input: prompt statement

[1750] Output: Encoded scent profile

[1751] Step 4:

[1752] Decoding and delivering olfactory data

[1753] The terminal decodes the encoded olfactory data received from the server, and the decoded data is sent to the olfactory device as a control signal.

[1754] Input: Encoded scent profile

[1755] Output: Decoded scent data

[1756] Step 5:

[1757] Scent generation by olfactory devices

[1758] Based on the control signal received, the olfactory device generates and provides the specified scent to the user, allowing the user to have a realistic olfactory experience within the virtual space.

[1759] Input: Decoded scent data

[1760] Output: Generated scent

[1761] Step 6:

[1762] Use of emotion engine

[1763] To analyze the user's emotions, the device collects emotional data from the emotion sensor and sends it to the server. The server's emotion engine analyzes the emotional data and issues instructions to generate the optimal olfactory experience based on the user's emotional state. The server then sends new prompts to the generative AI model based on these instructions.

[1764] Input: Emotion data from emotion sensors

[1765] Output: Prompt sentence optimized for the user's emotional state

[1766] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the robot 414. In the robot 414, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the control target 443 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires voice indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits voice data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the voice data.

[1767] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[1768] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the robot 414.

[1769] The emotion identification model 59 as an emotion engine may determine the user's emotion according to a specific mapping. Specifically, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the user's emotion according to an emotion map (see FIG. 9), which is a specific mapping. Similarly, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the robot's emotion, and the identification processing unit 290 may perform identification processing using the robot's emotion.

[1770] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an emotion map 400 on which multiple emotions are mapped. In the emotion map 400, emotions are arranged in concentric circles radiating from the center. Emotions closer to the center of the concentric circles are more primitive. Emotions representing states and actions arising from a state of mind are arranged on the outer edges of the concentric circles. The concept of emotion includes both affect and mental states. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain are arranged on the left side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally induced by situational judgment are arranged on the right side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain and induced by situational judgment are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the concentric circles. Furthermore, the emotion of "pleasure" is arranged on the upper side of the concentric circles, and the emotion of "discomfort" is arranged on the lower side. In this way, in the emotion map 400, multiple emotions are mapped based on the structure by which emotions are generated, and emotions that tend to occur simultaneously are mapped close to each other.

[1771] These emotions are distributed in the 3 o'clock direction on emotion map 400, and typically fluctuate between relief and anxiety. In the right half of emotion map 400, situational awareness dominates over internal sensations, resulting in a sense of calm.

[1772] The inside of emotion map 400 represents what is going on in the mind, and the outside of emotion map 400 represents behavior, so the further you go outside emotion map 400, the more visible the emotions become (the more they are expressed in behavior).

[1773] Human emotions are based on various balances, such as posture and blood sugar levels. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. Emotions can also be created for robots, automobiles, and motorcycles, based on various balances, such as posture and remaining battery life. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. An emotion map can be generated, for example, based on Dr. Mitsuyoshi's emotion map (Research on Voice Emotion Recognition and Emotional Brain Physiological Signal Analysis Systems, Tokushima University, Doctoral Dissertation: https: / / ci.nii.ac.jp / naid / 500000375379). The left half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "reaction" domain, where sensation is dominant. The right half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "situation" domain, where situational awareness is dominant.

[1774] The emotion map defines two emotions that promote learning. One is a negative emotion on the situation side, around the middle of "repentance" or "reflection." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences negative emotions such as "I never want to feel this way again" or "I don't want to be scolded again." The other is a positive emotion on the response side, around "desire." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences positive feelings such as "I want more" or "I want to know more."

[1775] The emotion identification model 59 inputs user input into a pre-trained neural network, obtains emotion values ​​indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400, and determines the user's emotion. This neural network is pre-trained based on multiple pieces of training data that are combinations of user input and emotion values ​​indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400. Furthermore, this neural network is trained so that emotions that are located close to each other have similar values, as in the emotion map 900 shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows an example in which multiple emotions, "relieved," "calm," and "reassuring," have similar emotion values.

[1776] The system according to the present disclosure has been described above mainly with respect to the functions of the data processing device 12, but the system according to the present disclosure is not necessarily implemented on a server. The system according to the present disclosure may be implemented as a general information processing system. The present disclosure may be implemented, for example, as a software program running on a personal computer or an application running on a smartphone, etc. The method according to the present disclosure may be provided to users in the form of SaaS (Software as a Service).

[1777] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by one computer 22, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be distributed and performed by a plurality of computers including the computer 22. For example, the data generation model 58 may be provided in an external device of the data processing device 12, and data may be generated in the external device in accordance with input data.

[1778] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32 has been described, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a portable, computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The specific processing program 56 stored in the non-transitory storage medium is installed in the computer 22 of the data processing device 12. The processor 28 executes the specific processing in accordance with the specific processing program 56.

[1779] Alternatively, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, and the specific processing program 56 may be downloaded and installed on the computer 22 in response to a request from the data processing device 12.

[1780] It is not necessary to store all of the specific processing program 56 in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, or to store all of the specific processing program 56 in the storage 32; only a portion of the specific processing program 56 may be stored.

[1781] The hardware resource for executing a specific process can be any of the following processors: An example of a processor is a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that functions as a hardware resource for executing a specific process by executing software, i.e., a program. Another example of a processor is a dedicated electrical circuit, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which is a processor with a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing a specific process. Each processor has built-in or connected memory, and each processor uses the memory to execute the specific process.

[1782] The hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, the hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be a single processor.

[1783] As an example of a system configured with a single processor, first, one processor is configured by combining one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as a hardware resource that executes a specific process. Second, there is a system that uses a processor that realizes the functions of an entire system including multiple hardware resources that execute a specific process on a single IC chip, as typified by SoC (System-on-a-chip). In this way, a specific process is realized using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as hardware resources.

[1784] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors can be, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor devices. The specific processing described above is merely an example. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[1785] The above-described description and illustrations are a detailed explanation of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure and are merely an example of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects is an explanation of an example of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or replacements may be made to the above-described description and illustrations within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure. Furthermore, to avoid confusion and facilitate understanding of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure, the above-described description and illustrations omit explanations of common technical knowledge that do not require particular explanation to enable the implementation of the technology of the present disclosure.

[1786] All publications, patent applications, and technical standards mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application, or technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[1787] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1788] (Claim 1)

[1789] A means for users to create accounts and log in;

[1790] means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data;

[1791] means for the server to generate, encode and distribute olfactory data;

[1792] means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory device;

[1793] A system including a means for an olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to a user.

[1794] (Claim 2)

[1795] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation AI includes means for creating a specific scent profile based on the received request.

[1796] (Claim 3)

[1797] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the terminal comprises means for sending a request for olfactory data based on a particular scene and receiving olfactory data corresponding to the scene.

[1798] "Example 1"

[1799] (Claim 1)

[1800] a means for a user to enter and authenticate their identity;

[1801] means for the terminal to request olfactory data based on a particular scene;

[1802] A means for the server to generate, compress, and transmit olfactory data using the olfactory generation assistance system;

[1803] means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory output device;

[1804] A system in which an olfactory output device includes means for generating and providing a specific scent to a user.

[1805] (Claim 2)

[1806] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation assistance system includes means for generating a specific scent signature based on the received request.

[1807] (Claim 3)

[1808] The system of claim 1, further comprising means for the terminal to transmit a request for olfactory data based on a specific scene in response to the user's movement and to obtain olfactory data corresponding to the scene.

[1809] "Application Example 1"

[1810] (Claim 1)

[1811] A means for users to create accounts and log in;

[1812] means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data;

[1813] means for the server to generate, encode and distribute olfactory data;

[1814] means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory device;

[1815] A system including a means for an olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to a user.

[1816] The system also includes means for generating olfactory data based on specific scenes of the video content, allowing the user to experience the corresponding scent during the viewing experience.

[1817] (Claim 2)

[1818] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation AI includes means for creating a specific scent profile based on the received request.

[1819] (Claim 3)

[1820] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the terminal comprises means for sending a request for olfactory data based on a particular scene and receiving olfactory data corresponding to the scene.

[1821] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for receiving and decoding olfactory data and generating a scent through an olfactory device during video playback.

[1822] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1823] (Claim 1)

[1824] A means for users to create accounts and log in;

[1825] means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data;

[1826] means for the server to generate, encode and distribute olfactory data;

[1827] means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory device;

[1828] means for the olfactory device to generate and provide the specified scent to the user;

[1829] means for the device to recognize the user's emotional state and analyze the data;

[1830] A means for the emotion engine to send instructions to the server so that optimal olfactory data is generated based on the analysis results

[1831] A system including:

[1832] (Claim 2)

[1833] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation AI includes means for creating a specific scent profile based on the received request.

[1834] (Claim 3)

[1835] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the terminal comprises means for sending a request for olfactory data based on a particular scene and receiving olfactory data corresponding to the scene.

[1836] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1837] (Claim 1)

[1838] A means for users to create accounts and log in;

[1839] means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data;

[1840] means for the server to generate, encode and distribute olfactory data;

[1841] means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory device;

[1842] means for the olfactory device to generate and provide the specified scent to the user;

[1843] an emotion engine for recognizing user emotions;

[1844] means for optimizing the olfactory experience according to the emotional state of the user based on the emotion engine;

[1845] A system including means for providing a scent associated with a product when the product is selected by a user in a virtual store.

[1846] (Claim 2)

[1847] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation AI includes means for creating a specific scent profile based on the received request.

[1848] (Claim 3)

[1849] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the terminal comprises means for sending a request for olfactory data based on a particular scene and receiving olfactory data corresponding to the scene. [Explanation of symbols]

[1850] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Device 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robot< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. A means for users to create accounts and log in; means for the terminal to send a request for olfactory data; means for the server to generate, encode and distribute olfactory data; means for decoding the olfactory data received by the terminal and transmitting a control signal to the olfactory device; A system including a means for an olfactory device to generate and provide a specified scent to a user.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory generation AI includes means for creating a specific scent profile based on the received request.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the terminal includes means for sending a request for olfactory data based on a particular scene and receiving olfactory data corresponding to the scene.

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